Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples, making it convenient and budget-friendly.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with additional vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 400 grams penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of your favorites to create a unique taste profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne pasta is ideal due to its ability to hold the sauce well, but other types like fusilli or rigatoni can also be used.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken can save time. Simply add it to the sauce to warm through before serving.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, adding a bit of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the cream sauce may separate upon reheating. For best results, consume within a few days of preparation.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, or substitute with a lower-fat cheese. Adding more vegetables can also enhance the nutritional value.
What can I serve alongside this pasta?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement this rich dish well. Garlic bread is also a popular side.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a small amount of flour can be used as a substitute, though the sauce may be less rich.
What other proteins can I use?
Shrimp or turkey can be used as alternatives to chicken.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Ensure the sauce is not boiling when adding the cheese, and add the cheese gradually, stirring continuously to promote smooth melting.
Can I add herbs for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Conclusion
Creamy Cheddar Chicken Penne is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it an ideal choice for any meal, and with various customization options, it can be tailored to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Print
Creamy Cheddar Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Cheddar Chicken Penne is a comforting and hearty dish, blending tender chicken with al dente penne pasta in a rich cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this easy-to-make recipe offers a creamy, flavorful meal with customizable options.
Ingredients
- 400 grams penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the pasta. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or milk.
- You can use pre-cooked chicken to save time.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
