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Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Indulge in the creamy delight of Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce, a comforting dish that effortlessly brings flavor to your dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, bursting with cheesy goodness. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 10 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sauté chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk; simmer gently.
  6. Stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted into a smooth sauce.
  7. Add mozzarella and Parmesan gradually until thickened; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
  8. Mix the cooked penne and chicken into the sauce; serve garnished with chopped parsley.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers into the dish. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or plant-based alternatives.