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Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Description

Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken seared in garlicky butter, hearty penne pasta, and a luscious sauce made with Parmesan, mozzarella, and Fontina. Balanced with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and topped with fresh parsley, this comforting pasta recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.


Ingredients

1 pound penne pasta

pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1½ cups heavy cream

¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¾ cup grated Fontina cheese

½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

1. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the chicken. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt 2 more tablespoons of butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and let them warm through, then remove skillet from heat.

5. In a separate saucepan over low heat, add heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and Fontina until sauce is smooth and fully melted.

6. Cook the penne in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

7. Toss pasta into the cheese sauce until coated evenly.

8. Plate the pasta and top with garlic butter chicken and sun-dried tomato mixture.

9. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired.

10. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.

Notes

Freshly grated cheese melts better and avoids a grainy sauce texture—avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible.

For added depth, toast the garlic lightly before mixing with the butter and tomatoes.

Use low heat when melting cheese into the cream to prevent separation or burning.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1¼ cups
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 24g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: garlic chicken pasta, creamy penne, three-cheese sauce