How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious dinner that will have your family asking for seconds? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne. This dish is not only rich and flavorful, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners that don’t skimp on taste. Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
• Rich, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken and pasta.
• Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests.
• Versatile—great for customizing with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients

To make this delightful Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 large chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your creamy garlic pasta masterpiece:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the pasta is well coated and the cheese has melted.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne turns out perfectly every time:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Feel free to add in some veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition.
• If you want to make this dish even creamier, add a bit more heavy cream or a splash of milk.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go—everyone’s palate is different!
• This recipe is also great for meal prep; just store the leftovers in an airtight container.

How to Serve

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is best served hot, straight from the skillet. I love to pair it with a refreshing side salad, like a Creamy Cucumber Salad or a vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad. The coolness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking for 30-minute meals that can be made ahead, this recipe is perfect! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just cook the pasta and combine everything. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

So, there you have it! A delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne as much as I do. It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Happy cooking!