Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This creamy pasta recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Its rich, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The blend of Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a smooth and rich sauce that coats every bite.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or a side, this Cheesy Chicken Penne can be paired with salads or bread for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and appealing flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.
• Customizable: Easily add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother. Having the right equipment ensures that everything goes according to plan.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks properly.
• Skillet: Essential for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups: Help ensure precise amounts of ingredients for balanced flavors.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware surfaces.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Pasta

• 10 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes, optional

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining it. Set aside the cooked pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss them until coated evenly.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning as necessary until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter until melted, then stir in minced garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream into the skillet. Stir well and let it gently simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheeses

Add Velveeta cubes and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until both cheeses melt completely into a smooth sauce.

Step 7: Thicken Up

Lower the heat further and mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until everything is melted together into a thick, velvety sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return penne pasta and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Gently stir until everything is well coated in the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Cook together for another minute or two.

Step 9: Serve

Finish off with chopped parsley on top along with red pepper flakes if you prefer some spice. Serve hot and savor every delicious bite!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Serving Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors with creamy textures. You can enhance your meal with a variety of serving suggestions to elevate this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.

Add Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for an extra layer of flavor and texture, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition, balancing the creamy pasta.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before serving for an even cheesier experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Achieving the best version of Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you out.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs provide more flavor compared to dried alternatives. Opt for high-quality cheeses for a richer taste.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your penne is cooked al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce. This prevents it from becoming mushy.

• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

• Season Well: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and spices based on your preferences for a well-seasoned dish.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

When you’re ready to serve Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce, consider pairing it with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing offers a nice contrast to the pasta.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is nutritious and adds a nice crunch alongside the creamy penne.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a summer touch and pairs wonderfully with cheesy dishes.

4. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provide a fresh appetizer option before diving into the main course.

5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can balance out the richness of the pasta while adding some crunch and tanginess.

6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement the flavors of the chicken penne while maintaining that comforting feel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that could affect your dish’s quality. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Seasoning enhances flavor. Make sure to use enough salt and spices on the chicken for an extra kick.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Always aim for al dente, which means firm to the bite.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: This starchy water is essential for adjusting sauce consistency. Save some before draining your pasta.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Cheese should melt slowly into the sauce for a creamy texture. Gradually incorporate it while stirring to achieve smoothness.
• Skipping the garnish: Fresh parsley or red pepper flakes adds color and flavor. Don’t skip this step for a visually appealing meal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish, uncovered, at medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce.

What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?

You can use any creamy cheese like cream cheese or a combination of cheddar and American cheese.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with additional chicken broth and whole milk for a lighter version.

How do I customize my Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up the protein with turkey or beef.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be portioned out for easy meals throughout the week.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. You can adjust it according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. This dish is versatile; you can easily customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please!