Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta – Quick & Delicious!

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home in just 30 minutes! Tender chicken, al dente penne, and a rich, velvety garlic-parmesan sauce come together for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing dinner guests!

Ingredients (Serves 4):

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 2 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and penne, cooking until al dente (about 10-12 mins).
2. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

2️⃣ Cook the Chicken:

1. Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook chicken for 5-6 mins until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 min until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
4. Add parmesan, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 mins until slightly thickened.

4️⃣ Combine Everything:

1. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss well.
2. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

5️⃣ Serve & Garnish:

1. Top with fresh parsley and extra parmesan.
2. Enjoy immediately while hot!

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach!