Description
This creamy, garlic-forward chicken pasta combines tender seared chicken, fresh Parmesan, and a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to penne. Ideal for weeknights or casual entertaining, it’s a flavor-packed dish that reheats beautifully and satisfies every time.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces penne pasta
2 cups heavy cream
4 cloves garlic minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Cook the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
3. Lower the heat to medium and add garlic to the same pan. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to avoid boiling.
5. Add Parmesan gradually, stirring to melt into the sauce and form a smooth consistency.
6. Add butter off the heat to finish the sauce with a silky sheen.
7. Return pasta to the pan and toss to coat evenly. Add pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce texture.
8. Top with sliced chicken, fresh parsley, and more Parmesan before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, most flavorful sauce.
Sear the chicken first for better flavor depth and a golden crust.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: chicken pasta, garlic Parmesan, creamy pasta, weeknight dinner