Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
A creamy pasta dish layered with succulent chicken and aromatic garlic, delivering rich Southern flavors perfect for busy weeknights.
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
Consider modifications such as replacing heavy cream with Greek yogurt or adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients.