Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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If you’re craving a dish that hits every note of comfort food bliss, then you absolutely have to try this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce Recipe. Imagine tender, perfectly seared chicken swimming in a rich, velvety sauce made from a dreamy blend of cheeses and heavy cream, all tossed with al dente penne pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make, delivering warm, cheesy, garlicky goodness in every single bite. This recipe becomes an instant favorite for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with something delightfully luscious and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy cheeses to the spice-kissed chicken, every element works together to deliver that signature comforting richness and bold taste.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up all the amazing seasoning and sauce.
• 8 oz penne pasta: Perfect for holding onto that luscious Parmesan sauce with just the right bite.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds the necessary creaminess that makes this dish unforgettably smooth.
• 1 cup Velveeta cheese: Melts perfectly to create a silky, cheesy base without graininess.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings stretchiness and mild creaminess for a comforting texture.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty depth and umami that rounds out the flavors.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden, flavorful crust.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Elevates the sauce with a rich, smooth finish and keeps garlic fragrant without burning.
• Minced garlic: The essential aromatic that infuses the dish with a warm, robust bite.
• Cajun seasoning: Provides a gentle kick and smoky warmth to the chicken.
• Paprika: Adds subtle sweetness and color that makes the dish visually inviting.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors so nothing tastes flat.
• Pepper: Offers a touch of sharp heat that balances the richness.

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

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water—this is key to flavoring the pasta itself. Cook the penne until it’s just al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite so it won’t become mushy once it’s combined with the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of that pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for perfectly adjusting the sauce consistency later on.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, slice your chicken breasts into strips and season them generously with the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices create a flavorful crust and a gentle heat that brings life to the mild chicken, working wonderfully alongside the creamy sauce you’re about to make.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken strips. Sear them until each side gets a gorgeous golden brown color, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This step not only locks in the juices but also gives you that tempting crispy edge. When they’re cooked through, set the chicken aside to rest.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic in Butter

Lower the skillet heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden but not browned. This step layers an irresistible garlicky aroma that will infuse the sauce and carry through every bite.

Step 5: Make the Velvety Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to blend it with the garlic butter. Next, add the Velveeta cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This stage creates the luscious base that makes the dish so creamy and comforting.

Step 6: Add Mozzarella and Parmesan

Stir in both the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. The sauce will thicken as the cheeses melt; if it feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it just enough for coating the noodles perfectly without being runny.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is luxuriously coated. Return the chicken strips to the skillet, nestling them into the cheesy goodness. Allow everything to simmer together briefly so the flavors meld and the chicken warms back up.

Step 8: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once everything’s melded beautifully, it’s time to plate up this crowd-pleaser hot from the stove. Optional garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley bring a burst of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness.

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

Garnishes

Finishing touches matter! A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan adds a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the creaminess. You can also add a little cracked black pepper on top to give a gentle spice kick right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish shines brightly on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. Think sautéed green beans, garlic roasted broccoli, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the chicken and cheesy penne in individual cast-iron skillets or pretty oven-safe ramekins. Add a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top and broil until golden for a delightful textural contrast. You could even turn this into a baked casserole layered with extra cheese for a different spin.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it down before storing to keep textures intact and flavors fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, although the pasta might become a bit softer after thawing. For best results, freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream as you warm it to bring back that creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and enjoy as if freshly made. Microwave reheating is fine but do it in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of penne?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect because its tube shape holds onto the sauce nicely, fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle would all be delicious alternatives depending on what you have or prefer.

Is Velveeta necessary for this recipe?

Velveeta helps create a smooth, creamy cheese sauce without graininess, but you can substitute with cream cheese or a mild cheddar—just expect a slightly different texture and flavor profile.

How spicy is this dish with Cajun seasoning?

The heat level is moderate; the Cajun seasoning adds warmth and a touch of smokiness without overpowering the dish. You can always adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, swap out the cheeses and cream for dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew cream and vegan cheese options, though the flavor and creaminess will differ somewhat from the classic recipe.

What’s the best way to get the chicken juicy and tender?

Don’t overcook the chicken. Searing it over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden but still juicy inside is key. Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain those juices.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce Recipe is the kind of dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite. It’s comforting, indulgent, and straightforward, making it a go-to recipe whether for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends. Once you make it, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your kitchen rotation. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this cheesy, garlicky dream of a dish—you won’t regret a single delicious forkful!

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