Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce
This Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is a rich and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Crispy, golden chicken breasts are paired with tender penne pasta, all smothered in a velvety, Parmesan-infused cream sauce. It’s the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy & tender chicken – Parmesan creates a flavorful crust that’s both crunchy and golden.
Creamy sauce – A rich, smooth, and cheesy sauce that perfectly coats the penne pasta.
Quick & easy – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Kid-approved – The creamy sauce and crispy chicken are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
12 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a shallow bowl, spread the grated Parmesan cheese.
Press each chicken breast into the cheese to coat both sides evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the Parmesan-coated chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.
5. Combine & Serve
Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
For extra crispiness, you can lightly bread the chicken with breadcrumbs before dipping it in Parmesan.
Add a squeeze of lemon to the creamy sauce for a bright, zesty contrast.
Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes to the sauce if you prefer a little heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing complement.
Final Verdict: Comfort Food at Its Best!
This Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is rich, comforting, and absolutely delicious. The crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and tender pasta come together perfectly for a dish that feels fancy but is easy to make.
Give it a try, and get ready for a flavor-packed dinner!