Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food—tender, flavorful chicken, creamy pasta, and a cheesy, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite. The combination of cheddar and parmesan offers a perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess. It’s a hearty, family-friendly dish that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or indulgent weekend meals. Best of all, it comes together easily and doesn’t require complicated steps or ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Fresh garlic (minced)
• Penne pasta
• Heavy cream
• Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Chicken broth (optional for thinning sauce)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside to rest.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
6. Slice the cooked chicken and return to the pan, coating it in the creamy sauce.
7. Add the cooked penne and toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
• Vegetable boost: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Bacon twist: Add crumbled bacon for a smoky layer of flavor.
• Different pasta: Swap penne with rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine.
• Low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Microwaving is also an option; heat in short bursts and stir in between to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish and reheat before serving. For best results, store the pasta and sauce separately.

What’s the best way to melt the cheese into the sauce?

Use freshly shredded cheese and stir it in slowly over low heat to prevent clumping.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it if needed.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Just slice and warm it in the sauce before combining with the pasta.

What type of cheddar works best?

Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar adds great depth of flavor. White or yellow cheddar both work well.

Can I freeze this dish?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, as they can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

How do I make it more garlicky?

Add more fresh garlic or a dash of garlic powder to the sauce to boost the flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s creamy and cheesy—usually a hit with kids. You can reduce the seasoning if needed.

Conclusion

Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta is the perfect fusion of comfort and flavor. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re cooking for your family or serving guests, this creamy pasta dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta

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Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta is a hearty, comforting dish that features tender seared chicken and penne pasta tossed in a rich, cheesy garlic butter sauce made with sharp cheddar and parmesan.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2. 1 teaspoon salt
3. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
5. 1/2 teaspoon paprika
6. 1 tablespoon olive oil
7. 3 tablespoons butter, divided
8. 3 cloves garlic, minced
9. 12 oz penne pasta
10. 1 cup heavy cream
11. 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
12. 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
13. 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning sauce)
14. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil and 1.5 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.
6. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, coating with the sauce.
7. Add cooked penne pasta and toss until evenly coated and heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

• Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and texture.
• Add chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen sauce as needed.
• To save time, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
• Store pasta and sauce separately for better reheating if making ahead.
• Not suitable for freezing due to dairy content.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 670
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 140mg