Description
If you’re looking for a quick dinner that feels gourmet without the hassle, this One Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is the answer. Juicy seared chicken meets a garlicky, ultra-creamy Parmesan sauce that wraps around every bite of tender penne pasta—all cooked in one pot. This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights, cozy weekends, or when you’re craving something indulgent but still doable. Whether you’re after easy dinner ideas, creamy comfort food, or food ideas that require little cleanup, this dish delivers big flavor in a simple format.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups chicken broth
12 ounces penne pasta
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Lower heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stir to deglaze the pan.
5. Add uncooked penne pasta and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
7. Slice chicken into strips and return to pan. Stir or arrange on top.
8. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce—pre-shredded cheese may not melt evenly.
To reheat, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: easy dinner, chicken pasta, creamy pasta, comfort food, one pot meals