Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Skillet is a perfect weeknight meal that combines the enticing flavors of chicken, pasta, and a rich garlic cream sauce all in one skillet. This dish is not just a feast for the senses; it’s also a comfort food classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. I often whip this up when I’m pressed for time but still want to impress my family with something delicious and homemade.

Why you’ll love this dish

This recipe is not just another chicken pasta dish. It’s a hearty meal that’s quick to prepare and budget-friendly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. The creamy garlic sauce coats the penne perfectly, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, it’s kid-approved, which is a major win for any parent!

"This creamy garlic chicken penne skillet has become my family’s favorite! It’s rich and satisfying, and my kids can’t get enough. I love how simple it is to make on a hectic evening!" – A Happy Home Cook

Preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Skillet

This one-pot wonder comes together in just a few straightforward steps. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, which serves as the foundation for your dish. While that’s happening, you’ll sear perfectly seasoned chicken breasts until golden brown, then infuse the pan with minced garlic. Finally, the magic happens when you combine heavy cream and parmesan to create a luscious sauce, tossing it all with the penne pasta for a comforting meal.

What you’ll need

To create this scrumptious Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Penne pasta
Fresh garlic cloves
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Butter
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper

Feel free to substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use a vegan cream alternative for a dairy-free option!

Step-by-step instructions

Cook the penne pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Add garlic: Toss in minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
Create the sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, pour in the cream, then add butter and parmesan. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined and creamy.
Combine with pasta: Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, mixing until every piece is beautifully coated in the sauce.
Season and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve warm with a sprinkle of extra parmesan if desired.

How to serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Skillet

To elevate your dining experience, consider plating the dish in elegant bowls garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color. Serve it alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast or some crusty garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce.

Storage and reheating tips

To ensure your leftovers stay fresh, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if necessary to loosen the sauce. If you want to save some for later, this dish can also be frozen; just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

Helpful cooking tips

Searing the chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot when you add the chicken—this will help create that delicious golden crust.
Finishing touches: For an extra layer of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce just before serving—it cuts through the richness beautifully!
Pasta al dente: Undercook the penne by a minute since it will continue cooking in the skillet with the sauce.

Creative twists

Feel free to get inventive with this recipe! Add some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra vegetables, or use a different type of pasta like fettuccine or farfalle. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can transform the dish instantly.

FAQs

How long does it take to make this dish?
The Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Skillet can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy evenings.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and simply toss them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

With its creamy flavors and easy preparation, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Skillet is sure to become a favorite in your home, enjoyed by both adults and kids alike!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Skillet

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A quick, creamy, and satisfying chicken pasta dish cooked all in one skillet.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Penne pasta
Fresh garlic cloves
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Butter
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper

Instructions

Cook the penne pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, cook penne according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, season chicken with salt and pepper, and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
Add garlic: Toss in minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
Create the sauce: Lower heat to medium-low, pour in cream, add butter and parmesan, stirring until creamy.
Combine with pasta: Toss cooked penne into the skillet until coated in the sauce.
Season and serve: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm with extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

Searing the chicken helps create a delicious golden crust. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, one pot meal, quick dinner, comfort food