Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is your go-to dish for cozy dinners or entertaining guests. This delightful recipe combines juicy chicken with creamy, cheesy penne pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table with its comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, buttery richness, and cheesy goodness creates a mouthwatering experience that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile Meal: Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and tender chicken, making it a hit for family gatherings.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and making the sauce in one pan, enhancing flavor.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing chicken and other ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, adjust to taste
• tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• cup heavy cream
• cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• cup reserved pasta water, if needed, to thin sauce
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden-brown with crispy edges.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium.
2. Add butter and minced garlic; stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour in heavy cream; stir until warm.

Step 5: Add Cheese to Create Sauce

1. Add Velveeta cubes; stir until melted and smooth.
2. Incorporate mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses; continue stirring until thickened.
3. If too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Stir in cooked penne until fully coated in sauce.
2. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let flavors blend.

Step 7: Serve

1. Return browned chicken to pan or serve separately beside pasta.
2. Spoon over remaining garlic butter from pan for extra flavor.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce hot!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is all about enhancing the rich flavors of the dish while creating an inviting presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves – Add whole basil leaves for a fragrant touch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and balance to the rich flavors of the chicken and pasta.
• Garden Salad – Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light, refreshing side.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly and is great for dipping.
• French Baguette – Slices of crusty baguette can soak up the delicious sauce.

Offer a Cheese Board

• Cheese Platter – Present an array of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and gouda to serve alongside the main dish for added variety.
• Crackers – Include assorted crackers to provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Perfecting this dish takes just a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce turns out delicious every time.

• bold Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh garlic, high-quality cheese, and fresh parsley to enhance flavors significantly.
• bold Adjust Seasoning Wisely – Taste as you cook; adjust Cajun seasoning or salt to suit your preference without overpowering the dish.
• bold Monitor Cooking Times – Cook chicken until golden-brown but avoid overcooking it to keep it juicy. The penne should be al dente for optimal texture.
• bold Incorporate Pasta Water – If your sauce thickens too much, adding reserved pasta water helps achieve a silky consistency without losing flavor.
• bold Let It Simmer – Allowing the combined ingredients to simmer helps meld flavors together beautifully, making each bite more enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Complementing your main dish with suitable sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside your main dish.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a flavorful side packed with vitamins.
4. Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach offers a nutritious option that cooks in minutes while keeping its vibrant color.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa provide an enticing presentation and healthy addition.
6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, artichokes, and roasted vegetables makes for an appealing starter or side dish choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be fun, but mistakes are common when preparing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it will become dry. Aim for golden-brown and juicy pieces by cooking just until done.
• Not seasoning enough: Skipping the seasoning can leave your dish bland. Make sure to season the chicken well with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or cheese can cause your sauce to clump. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother sauce.
• Ignoring pasta instructions: Cooking the penne past its al dente stage can result in mushy pasta. Follow package directions closely for the best texture.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta water can make your sauce too thick. Reserve some liquid before draining the penne to adjust consistency if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with aluminum foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce.

Can I substitute other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole wheat penne and reducing the amount of cheese used. You could also add more veggies like spinach or broccoli.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use plant-based cream alternatives and dairy-free cheese options to create a delicious dairy-free version.

What sides pair well with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce?

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables work great alongside this rich dish, balancing flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give this comforting recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!