Indulge in the creamy goodness of Easy Chicken Alfredo Penne, a comforting pasta dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy your taste buds. With a rich Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne, this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a simple yet delicious meal. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this easy and comforting pasta dish.

Easy Chicken Alfredo Penne brings together the classic flavors of Alfredo sauce and tender chicken with the delightful bite of penne pasta. This dish is a comforting and indulgent option that’s perfect for those times when you want a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients: Building the Creamy Harmony

For the Chicken Alfredo Sauce:

1 lb (about 450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Penne Pasta:

1 lb (about 450g) penne pasta
Salt for boiling water
Olive oil (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide: Bringing Creamy Goodness to Your Plate

1. Cook the Penne Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Add butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
If desired, season the sauce with garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor.

4. Combine Pasta and Chicken:

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the creamy sauce.

5. Mix in Penne Pasta:

Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the chicken Alfredo mixture, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Garnish the Easy Chicken Alfredo Penne with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

7. Serve Hot:

Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot, either on its own or with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Perfect Easy Chicken Alfredo Penne: Mastering Creamy Bliss

Chicken Variations: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken tenders as alternatives to chicken breasts for a different texture.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist on the Alfredo sauce.
Vegetable Additions: Enhance the dish by adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli to the Alfredo sauce.
Seasoning Adjustments: Customize the seasoning to your taste by adding herbs like dried oregano or thyme to the sauce.
Pasta Alternatives: Feel free to swap penne with your favorite pasta shape. Fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle work well with Alfredo sauce.
Prevent Pasta Sticking: To prevent the cooked pasta from sticking together, toss it with a bit of olive oil after draining.
Make It Ahead: Prepare the Alfredo sauce and cook the chicken in advance. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything for a quick meal.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

In conclusion, Easy Chicken Alfredo Penne is a delightful union of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for busy evenings when you crave a comforting and indulgent meal. So, gather your ingredients, let the aroma of garlic and Parmesan fill your kitchen, and indulge in a plate of creamy bliss with this easy-to-make pasta delight.

Easy Chicken Alfredo Penne