Golden, pan-seared chicken bursting with garlic and parmesan flavor paired with ultra-creamy, cheesy penne pasta — this is weeknight comfort food at its finest. The contrast between the crispy exterior of the chicken and the soft, creamy pasta makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser.

The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is simple yet luscious, coating every strand of pasta in a velvety, cheesy goodness. What really sets this apart is how the chicken’s savory crust complements the richness of the pasta. It’s the kind of hearty dinner that feels indulgent without being fussy. One skillet, one pot — and you’re done!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure this recipe comes together smoothly and with perfect texture, you’ll want to have the right tools at hand:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: This helps create that golden crust on the chicken without overcooking the inside. Cast iron retains heat well and gives a beautiful sear.
Large Saucepan or Pasta Pot: Needed to boil your penne until perfectly al dente. Make sure it’s roomy to avoid clumping.
Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken without tearing its crust and for lifting the pasta easily.

Microplane or Fine Grater: Essential for grating fresh parmesan, which melts better than pre-grated cheese.
Whisk: Perfect for ensuring your creamy sauce is lump-free and silky.

Using quality tools isn’t just about convenience — it improves flavor and texture. A well-seared chicken breast or thigh takes this from good to restaurant-worthy.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and juicy — the base of your savory protein.
Olive Oil: Helps in getting that golden sear while infusing flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances every layer.

Garlic (Freshly Minced): The star aromatic that brings out depth in both the chicken and the sauce.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create the sauce base.
Heavy Cream: The key to making the sauce velvety and indulgent.

Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, savory creaminess to the pasta and sauce.
Italian Seasoning: Brings herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Penne Pasta: Tubular shape holds the creamy sauce in every bite.

Parsley (Fresh Chopped): A pop of color and brightness at the end.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and reserve a bit of the pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Whisk in the grated parmesan and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Let it simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over it. Let it simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 5: Toss Pasta with Sauce

Add the drained pasta into the skillet or a separate bowl. Pour the creamy sauce over and toss to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Plate the cheesy pasta and top with the juicy garlic parmesan chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing This Dish

This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy and the chicken is hot and juicy. Plate it family-style or in individual bowls for a comforting and elegant dinner.

For leftovers, store the pasta and chicken in separate airtight containers if possible. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta with a splash of cream or milk on the stovetop or in the microwave to bring back its silky texture. The chicken can be reheated in a skillet over low heat to maintain its crisp edges.

If you’re prepping ahead, you can make the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Just add a bit of cream while reheating to refresh the consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Just be sure not to overcook them, as breasts can dry out more quickly than thighs. Slice them thinner if they’re very thick.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can work in a pinch. The sauce may be less rich but still creamy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free penne and double-check the parmesan for any additives.

Will the sauce still be creamy after reheating?

Yes, especially if you add a little milk or cream during reheating. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes pair beautifully with the garlic parmesan sauce.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

The chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. The pasta can freeze too, but the sauce may separate a bit when thawed. Reheat gently while stirring in fresh cream to bring it back.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta, you’ll want to try these equally indulgent and easy meals:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use chicken thighs or breasts? Add any veggies or spice it up? I love hearing how you customize these recipes to fit your taste.

Got a question? Drop it below — let’s make dinner better together!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner. Juicy, seared chicken meets velvety garlic-parmesan cream sauce, tossed with cheesy penne pasta. Every bite is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor.