Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

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Introduction

Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken breast is cooked in a creamy Parmesan sauce, then tossed with perfectly al dente penne pasta. This dish is comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor, offering a classic Italian-inspired meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 10 oz penne pasta
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions

  • Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest at the end adds a bright and fresh flavor.

Tips for Success

  • Fresh Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until done to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
  1. Cook the Chicken:
  • Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
  • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  1. Make the Sauce:
  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
  • Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  1. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Let the chicken heat through for about 2 minutes.
  • Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
  1. Serve:
  • Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or basil, and additional grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Description

Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a deliciously rich and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious Parmesan sauce. The al dente penne soaks up the cheesy, garlicky sauce, creating a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ideal for any occasion. The hint of Italian seasoning and garlic brings warmth, while the Parmesan adds a satisfying depth of flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~650 kcal
  • Protein: ~38g
  • Fat: ~30g
  • Carbohydrates: ~60g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sugar: ~2g
  • Sodium: ~750mg

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter. You can also substitute whole-wheat penne for added fiber or serve with a side of sautéed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of freshness to complement the creamy sauce.

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