🍽️ Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce
Golden chicken, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and al dente penne – a weeknight dinner dream!
If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that’s both elegant and ridiculously easy to make, look no further than this Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce. Perfectly seared chicken breasts sit on a bed of penne pasta coated in a silky Parmesan garlic cream sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a regular on your dinner table. 😍
🛒 Ingredients
Main:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Fresh basil, chopped
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta 🍝
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside — don’t rinse it, we want that starch to help the sauce cling!
2. Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection 🍗
Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to rest.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce 🧄🧀
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it — all those bits = flavor!), lower the heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until thickened and creamy.
4. Toss Pasta in the Sauce ✨
Add your cooked penne pasta to the creamy sauce. Gently toss to coat every bite with that luscious garlic-Parmesan blend.
5. Plate It Up & Serve 🍽️
Slice the rested chicken and lay it beautifully over your creamy pasta. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
⏱️ Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~650 kcal per serving
💡 Pro Tips
- Want extra crispy chicken? Lightly dredge the breasts in Parmesan and breadcrumbs before searing.
- Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce if it gets too thick.
- A pinch of crushed red pepper adds a lovely kick to the sauce if you like a little spice! 🌶️
🥰 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is one of those foolproof recipes that delivers restaurant-level flavor with pantry staples. The garlic-Parmesan sauce is luxurious without being heavy, the pasta is perfectly coated, and the chicken is juicy with a golden crust.
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for the ultimate dinner night in. 🍷💫
📌 Save It, Make It, Share It!
Tried this Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Penne? Tag your delicious creations with #ComfortFoodCravings or #WeeknightWonder — we’d love to see your version!
