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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Penne Pasta

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Penne Pasta
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A cozy, rich dinner made with tender chicken, silky Parmesan cream sauce, and penne pasta. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 to 2 cups baby spinach or frozen peas (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in heavy cream, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Lower heat and stir in Parmesan a handful at a time until melted and smooth.
  8. Return chicken to the skillet with any juices, add cooked penne, and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  9. Stir in spinach or peas until just wilted or warmed. Add lemon juice if desired. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  10. Serve topped with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

For lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also make it gluten-free or dairy-light with suggested swaps.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://diyprzepisy.com/creamy-parmesan-chicken-penne-pasta/

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