When it comes to comforting home-cooked meals, few dishes can rival the rich and creamy goodness of pasta. Imagine twirling perfectly al dente penne around your fork, enveloped in a smooth, savory sauce that sings with garlic and Parmesan flavors—pure bliss! If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for takeout instead of cooking, this recipe is your golden ticket back into the kitchen. Not only is The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner easy to prepare, but it also brings your family together over a hearty meal that everyone will adore.
I fondly remember making a similar dish for the first time, and the joy on my family’s faces was priceless. This dish is especially special because it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some protein with the juicy chicken, making it a nourishing option for family gatherings. Plus, it’s comparable to my beloved Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe, both of which boast creamy sauces that tantalize the taste buds. So, let’s dive into cooking up this flavorful feast!
What is The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner?
So, what exactly is The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner? Well, I bet you’re wondering who crowned it as the “best.” Honestly, it might just be the people who devoured it at my last family dinner! It’s a whimsical name for a dish that’s uncomplicated yet so satisfying that it seems to have captured everyone’s hearts—because let’s face it, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach! Picture this: a comforting bowl of pasta topped with deliciously tender chicken, all drizzled with a creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Are you hungry yet? Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for your next family gathering!
Why You’ll Love This The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner
The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner is not just another pasta dish—it’s the epitome of what a main course should be! It’s hearty, filling, and beautifully creamy, making it the perfect centerpiece for a cozy dinner table. Cooking at home also means you can save money while indulging in gourmet-style dining without breaking the bank. Plus, you can customize it to your heart’s content! Think fresh herbs, extra cheese, or even your favorite veggies. Imagine savoring each bite as the creamy sauce beautifully coats the penne, similar to the robust flavor you might find in a classic Alfredo but with the added treat of tender chicken pieces. So why not gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful dish?
How to Make The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner
Quick Overview
In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously creamy pasta dish that is as easy to make as it is satisfying. The smoothness of the heavy cream paired with the savory chicken and garlic creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Ready to roll your sleeves up? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the Chicken:
- Gently fold in the shredded chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to heat through for about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in the Pasta:
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy while warm.
Top Tips for Perfecting The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner
- Substitutions: For a healthier version, consider using low-fat cream or substituting with half-and-half. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, any gluten-free pasta will work beautifully.
- Timing: Ensure your chicken is adequately cooked and shredded beforehand to save time during prep.
- Avoiding Common Mistakes: To avoid curdling your cream, make sure not to cook the sauce on high heat. Stir continuously and keep it on medium-low.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers of The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner, you’re in luck! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s consistency.
With this delightful recipe, you’ll be serving up smiles and satisfied appetites in no time! Whether you enjoy it for a family meal or as a cozy comfort dish on a chilly evening, The Best Creamy Chicken Penne Dinner is bound to become a household favorite. Don’t forget to share your culinary creation and let me know how it turned out! Happy cooking!
Creamy Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Creamy Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
Garnish
- to taste Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Penne Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Combine the Ingredients
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the Chicken
- Gently fold in the shredded chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to heat through for about 3-5 minutes.
Mix in the Pasta
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy while warm.
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