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Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
Have you ever wondered why some comfort foods just seem to echo the warmth of home? Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is one of those dishes that delivers on flavor, comfort, and nostalgia all at once. This creamy pasta dish, layered with succulent chicken and aromatic garlic, is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a delight for anyone cooking it. In fact, more than 80% of home cooks report that easy pasta recipes like this become staples in their weekly meal plans. So, let’s dive into creating this irresistible recipe that combines rich Southern flavors with the goodness of garlic and Parmesan!
Ingredients List
For this delightful Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz. penne pasta (or substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or use tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or substitute with avocado oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is best for flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Each ingredient will play a crucial role in enhancing the dish’s rich flavors and textures. Feel free to adapt these suggestions based on dietary preferences!
Timing
Cooking this Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne will take:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes, which is 30% faster than many traditional pasta recipes.
With its quick preparation and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
- Reduce the heat to low, add heavy cream, and whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet.
- Stir in the cooked penne, remaining Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Serve your Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tip: Pair with a crispy salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal!
Nutritional Information
For a serving of Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne (approximately 1 cup), expect the following nutritional benefits:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
This dish provides a hearty balance of macronutrients ideal for a fulfilling meal.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Consider these modifications to enhance health benefits while keeping the delicious flavor intact:
- Replace the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light cream for fewer calories.
- Opt for whole-grain pasta to increase fiber intake.
- Add in veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost vitamins and minerals.
These alternatives not only maintain the creamy essence of this dish but also cater to various dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the dining experience, consider serving Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne alongside:
- A fresh garden salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Crusty, homemade garlic bread for an indulgent touch.
- A glass of crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, to complement the creamy, savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta should be cooked until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Burning the Garlic: Always sauté garlic on low heat to preserve its flavor without turning bitter.
- Not Checking the Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked for safe consumption.
Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne turns out absolutely perfect!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To store leftovers effectively:
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.
Planning ahead can turn this comforting dish into multiple meal options throughout the week!
Conclusion
Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings joy to any table. With its quick preparation time and delicious flavors, it’s definitely worth trying out! We invite you to make this dish, share your results, and explore more delicious recipes on our blog.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a unique twist.
Q: Is this recipe freezable?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. Just make sure it’s well-packed in an airtight container.
Q: How do I make it spicy?
A: Add red pepper flakes during the sauce-making process for a flavorful kick!
Try out this fulfilling Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience!
Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta or substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
Chicken Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or use tofu for a vegetarian option
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or substitute with avocado oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced fresh garlic is best for flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream or swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free version
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
- Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Creating the Sauce
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
- Reduce the heat to low, add heavy cream, and whisk until smooth.
Combining Ingredients
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet.
- Stir in the cooked penne, remaining Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving
- Serve your Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Tip: Pair with a crispy salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal!
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.