Introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cheesy Mozzarella Sauce is a meal that beautifully marries the heartiness of pasta with the rich, indulgent flavors of chicken and a creamy cheese sauce. This dish combines succulent chicken pieces seasoned with Cajun spices, cooked to perfection, and enveloped in a velvety sauce that contains a delightful blend of cheeses. It’s not just a dinner option; it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and satisfaction in each bite. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or any time you want to impress your loved ones with minimal effort.
The vibrant flavors of this recipe will transport you to a cozy kitchen, where the aroma of garlic and butter fills the air, making you feel right at home. With approachable ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, Garlic Butter Chicken Penne takes just a little over 40 minutes from initial prep to final plating, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet gourmet.
Detailed Ingredients
For this delectable Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cheesy Mozzarella Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick slices
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup chicken broth
– 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
This combination of ingredients creates a rich and creamy sauce that envelops the penne pasta and chicken, offering a burst of flavor in each mouthful.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Yield: 4 servings
This recipe will feed a family of four, perfect for a dinner gathering or leftovers for lunch the following day.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. In a mixing bowl, season the chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken slices to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt and become bubbly, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute, just until it becomes fragrant and slightly translucent.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken a bit.
6. Now it’s time to add the cheeses. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Season the cheese sauce with Italian seasoning, and taste to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
8. Once the cheese sauce is ready, return the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are well coated in the cheesy sauce.
9. Lastly, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until it’s melted and well mixed into the dish.
10. To finish, garnish the Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a pop of color and freshness to this comforting meal.
Notes
– Feel free to customize the spices to your taste preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
– For a healthier twist, you can substitute half and half for the heavy cream, though this will slightly alter the creaminess of the sauce.
– If you don’t have penne on hand, any other pasta shape like fusilli or rigatoni can be used in this recipe.
Cook Techniques
– Sautéing: This technique is essential for cooking the chicken and garlic. Sautéing allows the ingredients to cook quickly while maintaining their moisture and flavor.
– Simmering: After adding the heavy cream and broth, allowing the mixture to simmer helps thicken the sauce while integrating the flavors.
– Tossing: Once the pasta and chicken are added back into the skillet, tossing them with the sauce ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. Just ensure they are cooked through, as they may require a couple extra minutes of cooking time.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Cook the penne just before serving, and combine everything together in the skillet right before you are ready to eat.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cheesy Mozzarella Sauce is a delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy both your appetite and cravings for comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this meal a winner any night of the week. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner, the straightforward steps ensure you can create this culinary marvel with ease. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a fully rounded meal that everyone will love.
More recipe suggestions and combination
If you enjoyed Garlic Butter Chicken Penne, consider trying some of these recipe variations and combinations:
– **Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta**: Loaded with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce bursting with flavor.
– **Shrimp Alfredo Pasta**: A seafood twist on creamy pasta dishes, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich Alfredo sauce.
– **Spicy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata**: A spicy version of the classic dish, incorporating a zesty tomato sauce with seasoned chicken.
– **Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta**: For a veggie boost, add steamed broccoli to the chicken and sauce for a nutritious twist.
– **Penne with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes**: A fresh and vibrant alternative using basil pesto sauce combined with sun-dried tomatoes and chicken.
Explore these variations to keep your meals exciting and enjoyable, or create your own unique spin on the classic Garlic Butter Chicken Penne!