Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

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Golden, pan-seared chicken thighs seasoned to perfection meet rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce and cheesy penne pasta in this ultra-satisfying meal. Each bite is layered with flavor—crispy-edged chicken glazed in buttery garlic herbs, nestled against tubes of pasta that hold onto every drop of creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something truly special.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, treat yourself after a long day, or whip up a comforting meal for the whole family, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta delivers. It’s hearty, indulgent, and comes together with simple pantry ingredients. This dish is as visually stunning as it is mouthwatering—ideal for weeknight comfort or weekend luxury.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

• Rich, Creamy, and Decadent: The parmesan cream sauce coats every bite of pasta and chicken, creating a luscious, satisfying finish.
• Balanced Texture: Juicy, golden-browned chicken contrasts beautifully with tender pasta and smooth sauce.
• Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Great for picky eaters, special dinners, or doubling for a crowd.
• Straightforward Ingredients: No fancy ingredients—just classic pantry staples with a gourmet twist.
• Versatile: Easily swap penne for rigatoni or chicken thighs for breasts; it’s adaptable without losing its magic.
• Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

Before diving into cooking this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta, gather your tools to streamline the process and elevate the final dish.

1. Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Duty Pan

A cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan is essential for searing the chicken evenly and achieving that golden, flavorful crust. The retained heat ensures consistent browning without drying out the meat.

2. Large Pot for Boiling Pasta

You’ll need a generously sized pot to cook the pasta evenly and prevent it from sticking. A rolling boil allows the pasta to move freely, ensuring perfect texture.

3. Slotted Spoon or Tongs

These are helpful when handling the chicken during searing, especially if you’re flipping pieces frequently or transferring them without taking excess oil or butter with them.

4. Whisk

Crucial for making the parmesan cream sauce. A whisk ensures the sauce emulsifies properly, creating a smooth, lump-free consistency.

5. Grater or Microplane

Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded versions and boosts flavor. A microplane allows fine shavings that integrate seamlessly into the sauce.

6. Cutting Board and Sharp Knife

For prepping garlic, herbs, and chicken efficiently and safely.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the chicken before seasoning. This promotes a crisp sear instead of steaming.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper—it helps create that crave-worthy crust on the chicken.
• Boil Pasta to Al Dente: Since it’ll finish cooking slightly in the sauce, undercook it by about 1 minute in the pot.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of the starchy water before draining. It helps loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
• Low and Slow Sauce: Don’t crank the heat when making the cream sauce. Keep it on low to medium heat to avoid curdling or burning the cheese.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil at the end adds a burst of freshness and color to this rich dish.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this indulgent, flavor-packed dish. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store.

For the Chicken:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• Water and salt for boiling
• 1 tbsp butter (for tossing after boiling)

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed to adjust sauce consistency)
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley or basil (optional, for freshness)

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This ingredient lineup creates the perfect balance between rich, savory chicken and luxuriously cheesy pasta. Each component plays a vital role in building depth and creaminess in every bite.

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step ensures a golden, crispy exterior. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of each piece.

Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs. Sear for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked with a deep golden crust. Remove from skillet and set aside, covered to keep warm.

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Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne (or rigatoni) and cook until al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp butter to prevent sticking. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously. Allow it to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring often.

Gradually whisk in the parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce thickens. Season with black pepper, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.

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Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, letting it simmer for 1–2 minutes so the flavors bind. Adjust seasoning as needed.

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Step 5: Plate and Serve

Slice or leave the chicken thighs whole and plate them next to the creamy pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and a final shower of parmesan. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

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Notes

• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating fresh parmesan ensures a creamy, lump-free sauce.
• Balance the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water or an extra splash of cream to loosen it without watering down the flavor.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and keeps each bite moist and flavorful.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many chicken thighs at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed to ensure a crisp crust.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, especially in butter. Sauté it gently on medium heat and keep it moving to prevent bitterness in the sauce.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta. Don’t forget to reserve it before draining!
• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember, it continues to cook slightly in the sauce. Undercook it just a bit in the boiling water to get the perfect bite later.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cream or cheese can cause the sauce to seize or separate. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding.
• Rushing the Sauce: A silky cream sauce needs patience. Avoid boiling it rapidly—keep it at a gentle simmer while stirring consistently.
• Under-seasoning the Chicken: Since the chicken carries much of the flavor, be generous and balanced with your seasoning mix.
• Using Too Much Heat for the Sauce: High heat can break the cream and cheese mixture. Keep it low and slow to achieve that luscious, smooth texture.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta?

This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with sides that offer freshness, crunch, or contrast to balance out the richness. Here are excellent options to round out your meal.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Pull-Apart Rolls

Ideal for soaking up every last bit of that luscious garlic parmesan sauce.

2. Crisp Caesar Salad

The sharpness of the dressing and the crunch of romaine lettuce bring a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli or Broccolini

Lightly charred greens with olive oil and lemon balance the heaviness and add nutritional value.

4. Steamed Green Beans with Lemon Zest

Simple and clean—this side dish adds brightness without overpowering the main.

5. Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze introduce acidity and freshness that cut through the richness.

6. Grilled Asparagus

Tossed with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt, it provides a light, savory note to complement the creamy sauce.

7. Buttery Sautéed Mushrooms

They echo the umami flavor of the parmesan and deepen the savory profile of the meal.

8. Sparkling Water with Lemon or White Wine

A crisp drink like sparkling water or a dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) refreshes the palate between bites.

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Storage Instructions

Storing leftovers of your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is simple—and it tastes just as satisfying the next day with proper care.

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: While cream-based sauces can separate upon freezing, you can freeze it in a pinch. Use a freezer-safe container and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to rehydrate the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 730 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 190mg
• Sodium: 590mg
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups
• Category: Dinner / Main Course
• Diet: Not vegetarian, but gluten-free adaptable with gluten-free pasta

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well—just be careful not to overcook them. Slice them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking and quicker searing.

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2. What kind of pasta can I substitute for penne?

Any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will work beautifully. Just aim for something that holds sauce well.

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3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. For best texture, cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve and reheat everything gently together.

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4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

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5. Is this dish spicy?

Nope! It’s flavorful but not spicy. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving.

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6. Can I lighten this up with milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or add a small amount of cream cheese to help thicken.

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7. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely. Spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms are great additions. Stir them into the sauce just before combining with the pasta.

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8. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Use a skillet over low heat, and stir in a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can separate the sauce.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is everything you crave in a comforting meal—rich, hearty, and undeniably satisfying. With golden-seared chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety parmesan garlic sauce, this dish proves that indulgence doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, it brings warmth to the table and smiles all around. Try it once, and it might just earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation.

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