Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, coat each chicken breast evenly with grated Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3️⃣ Cook the Penne: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add a bit more olive oil (if needed), and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5️⃣ Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
6️⃣ Serve: Slice the Parmesan-crusted chicken and place it on top of the creamy pasta. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
7️⃣ Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish!
Pro Tips for Perfect Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce:
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor to the sauce compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches 165°F to keep it tender and juicy.
- Add Some Veggies: If you want to add more veggies, try tossing in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the creamy sauce.
Why You’ll Love Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce:
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a luscious, smooth sauce that coats the penne pasta perfectly.
- Crispy Chicken: The Parmesan crust on the chicken gives it a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a decadent meal in under 30 minutes!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 38g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQ About Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce:
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! You can swap out the penne for other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle, depending on your preference.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
While the sauce is best fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream if it thickens too much.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed spinach, peas, or even roasted cherry tomatoes can give the dish extra flavor and texture.
Common Problems and Fixes:
The Chicken Isn’t Crispy Enough?
If your chicken isn’t getting crispy, try pressing the Parmesan cheese into the chicken more firmly before cooking. Also, make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to the pan.
The Sauce Is Too Thick?
If your creamy sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit of milk or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Lemon Parmesan Chicken: Add some fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: Swap out the heavy cream for a garlic butter sauce for a rich, buttery flavor.
Why Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is Perfect for Any Occasion:
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, a special occasion, or a family gathering. The rich, creamy sauce and crispy chicken make it feel like a luxurious meal, yet it’s simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers!
Success with Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce:
This Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is sure to become a family favorite. With perfectly cooked chicken, rich creamy sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. You’ll be making this one again and again!
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