Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe for Easy Dinner at Home

This article walks you through a complete Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, helpful tips, and answers to common questions. It is written for home cooks who want cheesy meal ideas that are simple, family-friendly, and practical for weeknight dinners.

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is a dependable answer when you need easy food at home that everyone will eat. This dish combines classic pantry staples with tender chicken and pasta to create a comforting dinner that feels familiar yet special. Whether you are cooking for picky eaters or planning dinner ideas for four, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe keeps preparation simple and results consistent.

Chicken recipes for pasta are popular because they are filling, flexible, and easy to adjust. This version keeps flavors balanced with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a light cream sauce that coats the pasta without feeling heavy. If you are searching for healthy dinner ideas pasta that still taste indulgent, this recipe fits nicely into your weekly rotation.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe for Easy Dinner at Home

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• Author: Lily Taylor
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Creamy garlic Parmesan chicken penne made with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce for an easy family dinner.

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Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb chicken breast, diced

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter

5 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Red pepper flakes optional

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta until al dente and reserve pasta water.

2. Cook chicken in olive oil until done and set aside.

3. Melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

4. Add broth and cream, simmer gently.

5. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.

6. Return chicken and pasta, toss to coat.

7. Adjust consistency with pasta water and season to taste.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture.

Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, then add drained pasta. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
8. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Helpful Tips:

Cut chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce. Keep heat moderate to avoid separating the cream sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is a practical and comforting dinner that fits into easy food recipes with chicken while still feeling satisfying. It works well for family meals, picky eaters, and nights when you want something dependable without extra effort. With simple steps and familiar ingredients, this recipe proves that cheesy meal ideas can also be balanced and home-friendly.

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