There’s something so comforting about a hearty meal that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. Golden Garlic Chicken with Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Penne is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s also a quick recipe that will impress anyone at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love Golden Garlic Chicken with Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Penne

Fast
Easy
Giftable
Crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – a lean and protein-packed choice.
4 tablespoons olive oil – for a rich, flavorful cooking base.
6 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better.
1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all those lovely flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – a gentle kick of spice.
1 teaspoon paprika – adds a beautiful color and a hint of smokiness.
8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious, velvety texture.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melty goodness that everyone loves.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – a pop of color and fresh flavor.

How to Make Golden Garlic Chicken with Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Penne

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get that oven nice and toasty for the chicken!
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Your kitchen will start smelling divine.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once golden, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
While the chicken is baking, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. This is a great time to taste the pasta – it should be perfectly al dente!
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining olive oil and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to combine. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce.
Serve the creamy penne topped with sliced golden garlic chicken and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy every bite!

Substitutions & Additions

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
Add some vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for a burst of color and nutrients.
For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic.

Tips for Success

Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be juicy and tender!
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Just add it to the sauce to warm through.
Prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the garlic and parsley, and season the chicken, so you can have everything ready to go.

How to Store Golden Garlic Chicken with Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Penne

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the creamy penne without the chicken. Just cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with this dish? A simple green salad or some garlic bread would be perfect!
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

This Golden Garlic Chicken with Creamy Mozzarella Parmesan Penne is sure to become a favorite in your home. For more delicious recipes, check out Tasty with Lara or Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes for treats you will love!

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