Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or cozy nights in. With its creamy texture and garlic-infused flavor, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter, creamy cheeses, and Cajun seasoning creates a mouthwatering taste that you’ll crave.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a hearty main course or pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy pasta is a hit with children and adults alike, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
• Leftover Friendly: This recipe makes great leftovers, so you can enjoy the deliciousness again the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy garlic butter chicken dish smoothly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and creating a flavorful sauce with ease.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, adjust to taste
• tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 8 oz penne pasta
• cup heavy cream
• cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• cup reserved pasta water, if needed to thin sauce
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden-brown with crispy edges and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add the butter and garlic. Stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir until warm. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Add Cheeses

Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until thickened, creamy, and coats your spoon. If too thick, add reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Combine Pasta

Stir in cooked penne until fully coated in sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 8: Return Chicken

Return chicken to pan or serve separately beside pasta. Spoon any remaining garlic butter from chicken pan over top for extra flavor.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy garlic butter chicken alongside cheesy penne!

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

Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Sautéed Spinach: A quick sauté in olive oil brings out the vibrant flavors of spinach, making it a perfect side.
• Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus spears provide a nice crunch and complement the creamy pasta.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness to each plate.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the dish, enhancing the garlic flavor without overpowering it.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices alongside the dish for a chewy contrast to the creamy pasta.

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

Mastering this recipe requires attention to detail. Use these tips for an outstanding result every time.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts yield the best flavor and texture in your dish.
• Proper Seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they elevate all the flavors in both the chicken and sauce.
• Control Heat Levels: Cooking your chicken on medium-high ensures it gets crispy without drying out. Adjust heat as necessary when adding cream.
• Use Reserved Pasta Water Wisely: Adding pasta water gradually helps you achieve the desired sauce consistency without thinning it too much.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Complementing your main dish with sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make for a comforting addition that pairs beautifully with chicken.
3. Cauliflower Rice: Light and low-carb, cauliflower rice serves as a great base while absorbing sauce flavors.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the creaminess of your main dish.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a delightful bite that complements everything else on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be an art, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of when preparing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. To avoid this, cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and keep an eye on it while cooking.

• Not Salting the Pasta Water: Failing to salt the pasta water means your penne may lack flavor. Always add a generous amount of salt to boiling water before cooking the pasta for better taste.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or cheese can cause the sauce to separate. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before adding them to the skillet for a smooth sauce.

• Skipping the Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency. If your sauce is too thick, use a splash of this water to achieve a creamier texture.

• Not Allowing Flavors to Blend: Rushing through the simmering step can result in a bland dish. Letting your dish simmer allows all flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water and stir gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey is a great alternative that still offers a delicious flavor profile for this creamy dish.

What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?

You can use cream cheese or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella if you prefer a different cheese texture.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Incorporating vegetables like spinach or broccoli adds nutrition and color. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping proteins or adding vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give it a try; it might just become your new favorite weeknight meal!