Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter (divided); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

If you’re searching for a quick and delicious dinner option, look no further than this One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe! This dish is not just easy to make but also bursting with flavor, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. The combination of seared chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a comforting meal that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its convenience. Everything is cooked in one pot, which minimizes cleanup and allows you to focus on enjoying your meal with family or friends. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, indulgent pasta dish on the table that everyone will love. Whether you’ve had a long day at work or simply want a stress-free cooking experience, this recipe is here to rescue you with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

Here are a few reasons why this dish stands out:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One Pot Wonder: Reduces cleanup time — all ingredients cooked in a single skillet.
Rich and Creamy: The creamy Parmesan sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, delivering a delightful flavor experience.
Versatile: Can be customized with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference.
Family-Friendly: Kid-approved flavors that will please everyone at the table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking the One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne, it’s essential to prepare your workspace for a seamless cooking experience. Gather all your ingredients, including fresh garlic and grated Parmesan cheese, as well as your tools. You’ll need a large skillet to cook the chicken and pasta simultaneously, a cutting board for prepping, and a sharp knife for slicing the chicken and garlic.

Ensure that your skillet is spacious enough to accommodate the penne pasta as it cooks. Having the required ingredients and tools ready will streamline the process, making it enjoyable rather than rushed. With just a little organization, you’ll be ready to create this delicious dish in no time!

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter (divided)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful. Take your time, as well-seasoned chicken lays the foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden crust and are thoroughly cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest on a cutting board. This will keep the juices intact while you cook the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. As the butter melts, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for approximately 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be sure to watch it closely; garlic can burn quickly, affecting the dish’s overall flavor!

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Next, pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet with a spatula to deglaze it. This step is crucial as it lifts up any flavorful bits left from the seared chicken, enhancing the flavor of your sauce.

Step 5: Add Cream and Simmer

Stir in the heavy cream, raising the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Watch as the sauce thickens just a bit while you continue to stir. This process should take around 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Cook the Penne

Once simmering, add the uncooked penne pasta to the pot. Simmer uncovered for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the pasta; it should cook to al dente texture. If the mixture looks too thick, feel free to add extra chicken broth a little at a time.

Step 7: Incorporate Parmesan

After the pasta has cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. This step really brings home that comforting factor!

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into strips and return it to the pan, allowing it to warm through for a minute or two. This will keep the chicken juicy while blending its flavor with the creamy sauce.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy!

Finally, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle optional crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors that come from this one-pot meal!

Variations

Protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
Vegetables: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or broccoli to boost the nutritional content and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with Italian seasoning or garlic powder for an additional flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to monitor the pasta while it cooks and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer after adding the cream.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy a glass of white wine on the side to complement the flavors of the dish.

Tips

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 600 per serving
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is recommended, you can substitute fusilli, farfalle, or any short pasta you prefer.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

What if the sauce is too thick?

If you find your sauce is too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or cream gradually while stirring until it reaches the desired consistency.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne has become a staple in our household, and for good reason! The combination of rich flavors and easy preparation makes it an irresistible choice for dinner. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s a recipe that begs to be shared with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to try your own variations and make it uniquely yours. We hope you enjoy this delightful meal as much as we do, and we invite you to come back for more delicious recipes! Your feedback and shared experiences are always welcome — feel free to drop a comment or share your take on this dish!