Creamy Parmesan Penne
Introduction
There’s nothing better than a comforting bowl of creamy pasta after a busy day. This Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Bites with Parmesan Penne combines juicy, seasoned chicken with tender pasta in a rich homemade Parmesan sauce. It’s one of those easy dinner recipes that’s perfect for quick weeknight meals and family dinner ideas everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 35 minutes.
- Rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce made from scratch.
- Juicy, flavorful chicken bites in every bite.
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find.
- Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces (340 g) penne pasta
- Water, for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)
For the Garlic Herb Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water, if needed
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Penne
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne according to the package directions until al dente, about 10–11 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside. - Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. - Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm. - Cook the Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same skillet and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. - Prepare the Parmesan Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the dried parsley and adjust the seasoning to taste. - Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until it reaches a silky consistency. This recipe is perfect for holiday entertaining, great for meal prep, and makes a budget-friendly weeknight dinner. - Finish the Dish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet or arrange it over the pasta before serving. Let the pasta rest for 2–3 minutes so the sauce can thicken slightly. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
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Pro Tips & Variations
Freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. For healthy substitutions, replace part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or stir in fresh spinach, broccoli, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition. To keep this recipe budget-friendly, use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts without sacrificing flavor. This dish is excellent for meal prep because the pasta reheats well for lunches throughout the week. Store leftovers in airtight containers and add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency. Cooking for beginners is easy with this forgiving recipe, especially if you keep the sauce over gentle heat to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. For quick dinner ideas, prepare the chicken seasoning and mince the garlic ahead of time so dinner comes together even faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or chicken broth before serving.
What can I substitute for chicken?
Shrimp, turkey breast, grilled sausage, or sautéed mushrooms are all excellent alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little broth or milk if needed.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. The creamy sauce and pasta maintain their flavor and texture well, making this a great make-ahead meal.
Can beginners make this recipe?
Yes. With straightforward ingredients and simple cooking techniques, this recipe is ideal for cooks of any experience level.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 730 kcal |
| Protein | 43 g |
| Carbohydrates | 49 g |
| Fat | 40 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 790 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy garlic herb chicken with warm garlic bread, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a fresh Caesar salad for a complete meal. Pair it with sparkling water, iced tea, or a crisp white wine for an elegant holiday dinner, family gathering, or cozy date night dinner.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Bites with Parmesan Penne is the perfect combination of juicy seasoned chicken, tender pasta, and a rich homemade Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this comforting recipe is guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
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