Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta
Ingredients:
300g penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet, add diced chicken, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and fully cooked.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine:
Toss the cooked penne into the creamy sauce, mixing well to coat. Add the chicken and stir to combine.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and cracked black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy!
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#PastaLovers #CreamyChickenPasta #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne every time. Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook for 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests for a perfectly al dente bite. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, pat your diced chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for a good sear. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, season, and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side to develop a golden crust. Remove the chicken and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for just 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Whisk in the grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce coats the back of a spoon. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides. Serve it alongside a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a heartier meal, add roasted asparagus or broccoli. To elevate the presentation, finish with extra grated Parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and the fresh basil. A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on the plate.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook pasta al dente, reserving some water. Sear seasoned chicken until golden, then remove. Sauté garlic briefly in the same pan. Simmer cream and Parmesan into a sauce, thinning with pasta water if needed. Combine sauce, pasta, and chicken. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? For a true creamy texture, heavy cream is best. Milk will not thicken properly and can curdle. For a lighter option, try half-and-half, but simmer it gently.
How can I prevent the garlic from burning? Always lower the heat after cooking the chicken. Add the garlic and stir constantly for no more than a minute until just fragrant.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh basil? Fresh parsley or chives make excellent substitutes. Avoid dried basil as a garnish; it won’t provide the same fresh flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely. Sauté spinach until wilted after the garlic, or add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers with the cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy pasta ruins the dish. Cook it al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce.
- Adding Cold Cheese to Hot Sauce: Use room-temperature, finely grated Parmesan to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping.
- Crowding the Chicken: Adding all the chicken at once steams it instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is a key tool for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta is a testament to how a few quality ingredients, prepared with simple techniques, can create a restaurant-worthy comfort meal at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a decadent, satisfying dish that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Its versatility with add-ins and sides makes it perfect for both busy weeknights and casual entertaining. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!