Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

Introduction

Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of ease, flavor, and creativity, all while utilizing everyday ingredients. This recipe is a masterclass in balancing rich flavors with the simplicity of preparation, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a creamy parmesan sauce creates a culinary experience that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking to impress your family with a weeknight dinner or wow your guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The dish achieves a harmonious balance of flavors, from the savory taste of chicken and parmesan to the slight sweetness of the cream, all using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive results, the recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of chicken, penne, and creamy parmesan sauce creates a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a professional kitchen, yet it requires no special skills or equipment.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside with the pasta.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let cook for about 2 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Then, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for about 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy parmesan sauce.
6. Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy sauce, make sure to not overcook the cream, as it can quickly become too thick and separate.
• Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the skillet with the onion for added flavor and nutrients.
• Don’t overcook the chicken or pasta, as this can lead to a dry and unappetizing final dish.

Heat Control

When cooking the chicken and the sauce, it’s crucial to maintain a medium heat to prevent burning or overcooking. Ideally, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through. For the sauce, a gentle simmer is key to preventing it from boiling over or becoming too thick too quickly.

Crunch Factor

The dish should have a nice balance of textures, with the tender chicken and pasta complemented by the creamy sauce. To add an extra crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top of the dish before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients: While it might be tempting to use cheaper alternatives, the flavor and quality of your dish will significantly improve with good ingredients, especially when it comes to the parmesan cheese.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, to ensure each piece has enough room to cook evenly and prevent steaming instead of browning.
• Let it rest: After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or adding it back to the sauce. This helps the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
• It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the cream can separate and the pasta can become mushy. However, you can prepare the components separately (cook the pasta and chicken, make the sauce) and then freeze them, combining and reheating when needed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, if you’re looking to share it as a gift, consider portioning it out into individual containers, topping with additional parmesan cheese and parsley, and including a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Wrap the containers in a decorative bag or add a ribbon for a more personalized touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or use Italian seasoning for a more herby flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to parsley, consider topping your Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne with diced tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or sliced olives for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle, or substitute the chicken with shrimp or pork for a variation in protein.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a tablespoon of flour to thicken.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter. For a lighter version, use less cream or substitute some of it with Greek yogurt.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the chicken for doneness by cutting into it; if it’s still pink, it needs more cooking time. For the pasta, taste it frequently towards the end of its cooking time to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? While it’s possible to freeze the components of the dish separately, it’s not recommended to freeze the complete dish due to the risk of the sauce separating and the pasta becoming mushy.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe contains pasta, which typically contains gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but be aware that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, especially for the chicken and the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to please both kids and adults. With its rich flavors, comforting textures, and the ease of preparation, it’s an excellent choice for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make the dish your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with family and friends. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delightful journey of culinary exploration!