Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne
When I think of cozy dinners that feel like a big, warm hug, I can’t help but imagine the aroma of garlic butter chicken penne wafting through my kitchen. This has been a staple in my home since those early days of trying to navigate the chaotic world of meal prep, especially on those busy weeknights where I just wanted to feel accomplished without having to spend hours fretting over a recipe. Sitting down to a bowl of this dish takes me back to a particularly cold winter night when I first experimented with it. I was huddled in my kitchen, the wind howling outside, and as I stirred the chicken and garlic together, I felt an odd sense of pride—like my culinary skills were finally coming together!
I can still remember that first sizzling sound of the cubed chicken hitting the hot pan. I didn’t even know how to chop an onion properly back then! It was a little chaotic—there was garlic flying everywhere, and I’m pretty sure I made a mess of my kitchen. But honestly, isn’t that what cooking is all about? It’s not just about the perfect presentation; it’s about the journey, the flavors, and those delightful whoops moments that make it all worthwhile.
What makes this dish essential to my weekly lineup is not only its comforting nature but also how it can be a go-to for easy weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together in less than thirty minutes, which is a lifesaver for anyone juggling work, family, and perhaps even a side hustle or two. As I mix the creamy sauce, the smell fills my home, and it’s hard not to let out an appreciative sigh. This isn’t just food; it’s a mood. So, let me take you on a journey through my beloved garlic butter chicken penne, and trust me, you’ll want to add this to your healthy comfort food repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: This dish comes together faster than it takes for your favorite romantic comedy to play out, making it perfect for those chaotic weeknights.
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Picky-Eater Approved: Trust me when I say that even the most discerning little diners will happily devour this delicious pasta. It’s like a full English breakfast that the kids actually want to eat—who knew pasta could do this?
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Creamy Comfort: You’ll love how the heavy cream and Parmesan meld together, creating a velvety sauce that clings to the penne like a warm embrace.
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Perfect Leftovers: Meal prep goals right here! You can make a batch for dinner and enjoy the leftovers for lunch—just don’t tell anyone how good they are, or it might disappear too quickly!
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Simple Pantry Ingredients: With ingredients you likely already have at home, you won’t have to make a special trip to the grocery store. No stress, just good eats!
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Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, chicken, and herbs brings a delightful twist; it strikes a beautiful balance that makes your taste buds sing.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Oh, where do I even start? Garlic has always had a magical influence in my kitchen. Anytime I add it, something special happens. It’s the fragrance of garlic sizzling in olive oil that feels like home. Add the succulent bits of chicken and the rich, creamy sauce, and you have a dish packed with flavor and love.
Every time I make this recipe, I reflect on those early cooking days—when I didn’t know how to sauté without setting off the smoke alarm, or when I thought adding too much garlic was a cardinal sin. Now? I say more garlic equals more happiness. Honestly, each bite of this chicken penne feels like a journey through my culinary evolution—a delicious reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be made with love.
Ingredients
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8 ounces penne pasta: A pasta shape that perfectly captures all that garlicky goodness—who doesn’t want to twirl their fork around those beautiful little tubes?
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2 tablespoons olive oil: A staple in my kitchen that adds flavor and richness. Plus, it’s healthier than butter, so it’s a win-win!
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1 pound chicken breast, cubed: High in protein, this is a true powerhouse in any healthy meal planning. I usually opt for organic chicken, as I feel it enhances the overall flavor.
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4 cloves garlic, minced: Because let’s face it, no one ever complained about too much garlic! Plus, it adds depth and warmth to the dish.
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1/2 cup chicken broth: A splash of broth adds moisture and extra flavor. I recommend low-sodium to control the saltiness.
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1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret behind that luxurious, creamy sauce. Just don’t skimp on this one; it’s what makes it feel like a hug in a bowl.
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This cheesy goodness not only binds the sauce but adds a salty, nutty note. I always use freshly grated—it just elevates everything!
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Just a sprinkle for brightness on top! It adds color and a fresh kick that we all need.
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Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bind all these lovely flavors together.
Personal Tips
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When it comes to pasta, don’t overcook it; you want it to be al dente! This keeps it sturdy enough to hold up in the creamy sauce.
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If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some veggies! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli work great and add bonus nutrients.
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As for the chicken, seasoning goes a long way. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt and pepper on it before cooking to really bring out the flavors.
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Don’t do this: Whatever you do, don’t skip the garlic! I mean, you’ll definitely miss out on the whole experience. More garlic equals more joy, right?
How to Make It Step-by-Step
First things first—let’s cook the pasta. I love it when I can tackle multiple steps at once! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then throw in the penne and cook it according to the package instructions. I like mine just a bit firmer than the standard advice suggests. Trust me; we’re going to toss this magic pasta into that creamy sauce, and you don’t want it to get mushy on you!
While that’s bubbling away, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. The tension in my kitchen rises as I hang over the simmering oil. Can you hear that gentle sizzle? Oh, the anticipation! Next, it’s chicken time. Toss in about a pound of cubed chicken breast and watch it transform from dull to golden brown. I usually let this go for about 5-6 minutes, tossing the pieces around with a spatula, ensuring they get lovingly browned on each side.
As I flip the chicken, the scent envelops me—the richness of the chicken mingling with the fragrant olive oil is heavenly. Once your chicken is cooked through (you don’t want to serve anyone uncooked chicken—yikes!), stir in those four minced garlic cloves. Get ready for the aroma to kick into overdrive! Sauté this for about a minute or two, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Seriously, if that smell doesn’t have you salivating, I don’t know what will!
Next up, it’s time for the chicken broth to enter the party. Pour in half a cup and let it bubble away, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where the flavor party really begins! Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, and then reduce the heat a touch.
Now, here comes the truly indulgent part—stirring in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. It’s like Valentine’s Day for pasta lovers! Watch as the sauce transforms into this luscious, creamy delight. Remember to keep stirring until everything is smooth and blended beautifully. Taste it! Adjust the seasoning with some salt and pepper, but, for heaven’s sake, resist the urge to dive right in.
At long last, we’re ready to bring in the penne. Drain it and toss it straight into that dreamy sauce, like a knight being welcomed back to the castle. Feel free to hit that penne with some fresh parsley for a pop of freshness and color. Toss everything together until it’s coated, and don’t be shy. Get your hands in there!
As I plate it up, I can practically hear my family salivating in the background. With a sprinkle of more Parmesan on top, this dish is ready to shine. Each spoonful is warm, creamy, garlicky goodness—just the comfort I crave.
Tips for Best Results
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Always make sure to drain your pasta properly but don’t rinse it! You want that starchiness to help the sauce cling beautifully.
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If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. We definitely don’t want to be waiting around for that to happen.
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For a fuller flavor profile, consider adding a dash of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
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Protein swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, shrimp or even cubes of tofu can be great replacements.
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Pasta preferences: Don’t have penne? Use whatever pasta shape you have on hand! Fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti will work just fine.
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Dairy alternatives: If dairy isn’t your thing, opt for coconut milk in place of cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a tasty vegan twist.
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Veggies galore: Stay seasonal! Add veggies like asparagus in spring or roasted tomatoes in summer. They can add both color and flavor to an already delightful dish.
Directions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; mix until smooth.
- Add cooked penne pasta and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
This healthy comfort food pairs perfectly with a simple green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. If you’re looking for that cozy vibe, a glass of sparkling water with fresh lemon goes splendidly—refreshing yet light. And let’s be real: we all love a good glass of rosé, especially by candlelight. A rom-com running softly in the background seals the deal for me!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
So, let’s talk about leftovers. This delicious dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or extra cream as needed to loosen things up. Nobody likes dry pasta!
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
If you’re planning to make this ahead of time, you can prepare the sauce and chicken combination and freeze it. Just do this before you add the pasta, as it won’t hold up to freezing well once mixed. When you decide to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then easily toss in freshly cooked penne.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking the garlic is one newbie mistake I made all too often. You want it golden but not burnt; burnt garlic can easily ruin all that flavor.
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Don’t skip draining the pasta properly. Trust me, sauce and water don’t mix well—your sauce will end up watery instead of creamy.
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Figuring out the right heat is essential. You want a gentle simmer, not a raging boil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out penne for gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go.
2. Can I substitute the protein?
Sure! Feel free to use shrimp, tofu, or even ground beef or turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be turned into a hearty soup by adding some stock and more veggies, or become a delicious baked casserole topped with cheese!
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Cooking spatula
- Measuring cups
- Kitchen knife for chopping
Final Thoughts
As I sit down with my family to enjoy this garlic butter chicken penne, I’m filled with gratitude for those mess-filled early cooking days. Each bite reminds me that cooking is not about perfection—it’s about joy, warmth, and togetherness. This dish has been a proud staple in my culinary adventures, and I can’t wait for you to experience the comfort and flavor it brings.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Trust me, they’ll appreciate this deliciousness in their lives, just like I do!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 8 ounces penne pasta A pasta shape that captures the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds flavor and richness.
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed Opt for organic for better flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Provides rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium to control saltiness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Creates a luxurious sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Adds color and freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the penne according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Making the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combining the Pasta
- Add the drained penne pasta to the sauce and toss until coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
