Delicious Double-Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe in Velvety Garlic Butter Sauce

There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy pasta dish that warms you from the inside out, isn’t there? This Double-Cheese Chicken Penne in Velvety Garlic Butter Sauce is one of those recipes that makes you feel right at home. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a satisfied belly. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Double-Cheese Chicken Penne in Velvety Garlic Butter Sauce

• Fast: You can have the main components prepped and in the skillet in about 20 minutes.
• Easy: It’s a simple “cook and mix” method that even beginner cooks can master.
• Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves cheesy pasta, and this dish is no exception!
• Comforting: The creamy sauce hugs every bite of the pasta and chicken, making it a perfect cozy meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta: This pasta is great for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a lovely flavor and helps cook the chicken.
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced: A lean protein that makes this dish hearty.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and velvety.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that delicious cheesy goodness!
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey, it’s a must-have in this dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A simple way to add depth to the flavor.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A pop of color and freshness on top.

How to Make Double-Cheese Chicken Penne in Velvety Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Start by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs and stir well to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a delightful touch.

Substitutions & Additions

If you want to mix things up, here are some great suggestions:

• Swap the chicken for shrimp or sautéed vegetables for a different protein or a vegetarian option.
• Try adding some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• If you prefer a lighter dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to not overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
• For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic.
• You can easily prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them when you are ready to serve.

How to Store Double-Cheese Chicken Penne in Velvety Garlic Butter Sauce

This dish is great for leftovers! Store any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might want to add a splash of cream when reheating to bring back that lovely creaminess.

FAQs

• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, just combine them with the pasta right before serving.
• Can I freeze this dish? While you can freeze it, the texture of the pasta may change upon reheating. If you freeze it, consider adding a bit more cream when you reheat.

There you have it! This Double-Cheese Chicken Penne in Velvety Garlic Butter Sauce is your new go-to comfort food. For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy pasta bowl or these fun meatball bombs for treats you will love!

Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delightful recipes and inspiration!