When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a delightful bowl of One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne. Imagine twirling creamy pasta around your fork while savoring the tender chicken coated in a rich garlic sauce. cheesy broccoli tater tots creamy one pot orzo recipe It’s a dish that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug, perfect for those evenings when the world feels a little too chaotic.
This recipe takes all the stress out of cooking. You won’t be juggling pots and pans like an amateur chef in a circus act. Instead, you’ll find joy in one glorious pot that does all the heavy lifting for you. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to impress your family and friends with its mouthwatering flavors and elegant presentation.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The flavor profile is rich and hearty, combining savory garlic and parmesan for ultimate satisfaction.
- Visually, the creamy sauce glistens over perfectly cooked penne, making it irresistible on any table.
- Versatile enough to customize with seasonal veggies or proteins, it fits any meal plan seamlessly.
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well here. Choose ones that are plump and fresh for maximum juiciness.
- Fresh Garlic: Use at least 4 cloves of fresh garlic; it provides that aromatic punch that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Penne Pasta: Perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce! Feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to ensure you can control the saltiness without compromising flavor.
For the Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! It creates that luxurious creaminess we all crave.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best! It melts beautifully into the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
- Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Plus, it wilts down nicely into the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add some olive oil and sauté your boneless chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side should do it. Remove them from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Infuse the Garlic
In the same pot (because who wants extra dishes?), toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute. Be careful not to burn it or you’ll have to start over!
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add your penne pasta to the pot along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer until the pasta is al dente—about 10 minutes should work perfectly.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for another couple of minutes until thickened slightly. This step is crucial because who doesn’t love that creamy goodness?
Step 5: Add Cheese & Spinach
Gradually stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Toss in your spinach at this point; let it wilt into your delicious creation.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
Slice your sautéed chicken into strips and return it to the pot, mixing everything together well. Transfer this creamy goodness onto plates maybe add some extra parmesan on top for good measure—and enjoy every decadent bite!
Now sit back, relax, and watch as everyone devours their plates faster than you can say “One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne.” It’s comfort food at its best a simple yet luxurious meal sure to become a family favorite!
You Must Know
- This One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
- It combines creamy, garlicky goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne.
- The best part?
- You can make it all in one pot, leaving you with less cleanup and more time to enjoy!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown. Then, remove it and cook the pasta in the same pot with broth for extra flavor. Finally, add the sauce ingredients back in, along with the chicken, ensuring everything melds perfectly together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the penne for your favorite pasta or add seasonal veggies like spinach or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous—go ahead and throw in some mozzarella for extra stretch!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore creaminess and warm over low heat on the stovetop.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Searing chicken properly ensures maximum flavor retention during cooking.
- Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer to deepen those delightful flavors.
- Lastly, taste as you go—you may discover something magical that wasn’t in the original recipe!
Sometimes I whip up this One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne when friends come over. Their delighted faces after just one bite remind me why I love cooking so much!
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne?
To make One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne, gather boneless chicken breasts, penne pasta, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Additionally, include olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish. This combination creates a rich and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare in one pot. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
How long does it take to prepare One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne?
Preparing One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes around 10 minutes of preparation time followed by approximately 20 minutes of cooking. The quick cooking process makes this dish ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. garlic butter cod dish With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone looking to whip up a delightful meal in no time.
Can I customize One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne?
Absolutely! You can customize One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne by adding your favorite vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. For a twist on flavor, consider incorporating mushrooms or bell peppers into the mix. paprika zucchini chicken Additionally, feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Adjusting the recipe to fit your taste preferences is part of the fun in making this versatile dish. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
Is One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne suitable for meal prep?
Yes, One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is excellent for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store individual portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The dish keeps well for up to three days and reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop. This makes it a convenient choice for those looking to save time during the week while still enjoying homemade meals packed with flavor.
Conclusion for One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
In conclusion, One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly delicious. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it has become a family favorite. Remember to gather all ingredients beforehand to streamline your cooking process. Whether you choose to customize it or stick with the classic version, this dish promises satisfaction every time you serve it. Enjoy this wonderful meal that brings both comfort and joy!
One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together tender chicken and al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich garlic cream sauce. This one-pot wonder simplifies cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its delightful flavors and creamy texture, this dish will leave everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Infuse garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook pasta: Add penne pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Create sauce: Stir in heavy cream and simmer for an additional 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese & spinach: Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted. Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Combine & serve: Slice cooked chicken into strips and return to the pot, mixing everything well. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
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