Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and al dente penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering rich flavors that will satisfy everyone at your table. It’s easy to prepare and features a blend of spices that elevate the dish to new heights. Plus, the creamy texture makes it a comforting favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for beginner cooks.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Cajun seasoning, and creamy cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Meal: Pair it with a salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that suits any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it cooks perfectly.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Colander: Allows you to drain pasta easily without mess.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder

Optional Toppings

• Chopped parsley (optional)
• Extra Parmesan (optional)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until tender according to package instructions. Drain it well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the olive oil and butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then, add the chicken pieces along with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Pour in heavy cream and milk while stirring until warm. Add in Velveeta cheese cubes and stir until melted. Mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Season your sauce with additional Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder for extra flavor. Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss well to coat every piece in sauce. Finally, return the cooked chicken to combine all ingredients gently.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with optional extra cheese or chopped parsley sprinkled on top if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne! Each bite will leave you craving more!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne is all about enhancing the dish’s rich flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad – This classic salad, topped with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing, balances the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed Greens – A light salad with a variety of greens drizzled with vinaigrette adds freshness to each bite.

Add Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread – Crispy bread infused with garlic butter complements the creamy penne perfectly for that extra crunch.
• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks – Soft and cheesy sticks provide a delightful side to dip into the sauce.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Basil Leaves – Adding basil can introduce an aromatic twist that enhances the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

To achieve the ultimate Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality chicken enhance flavor significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Cooking pasta until it’s just firm ensures it holds up well in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
• Balance Seasoning – Taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.
• Stir Constantly – When melting cheese into the sauce, stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Complement your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes flavored with garlic create a comforting pairing alongside the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch and vibrant color contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provides a nutritious balance.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn enhances flavors with its natural sweetness, perfect for summer meals.
6. Caprese Skewers – Skewers filled with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for a fresh appetizer that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be fun, but there are common mistakes that may affect your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or dairy can prevent even cooking and proper melting. Always bring them to room temperature before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoned dishes can taste bland. Don’t be shy with your spices; taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Skipping the garlic sautéing step: Adding garlic directly to the sauce without sautéing can lead to a harsh flavor. Sauté until fragrant for a milder taste.
• Rushing the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps flavors meld together. Don’t rush; take your time for a rich, creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Best eaten within 2–3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a collection of questions about Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne that may help clarify some queries.

What makes Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne special?

The blend of garlic butter with creamy cheeses creates a rich flavor that complements tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While penne is great, feel free to substitute with fusilli, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Is this recipe easy to customize?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or switch up the seasonings based on your taste preferences.

How do I make it healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta and reducing cheese portions while adding more vegetables for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try—your family will love it!