Description
A rich and comforting pasta dish made with tender garlic butter chicken, creamy cheddar-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 250 g penne pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well to coat with the sauce.
- Add the cooked penne pasta and toss until everything is evenly combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- You can add red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American