Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo

Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo is a delightful dish that brings comfort to any meal. This creamy pasta combines tender chicken and rich flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The unique garlic butter mozzarella alfredo sauce elevates this dish, offering a deliciously satisfying experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and creamy cheeses makes every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe fits any setting.
• Healthy Alternatives: Using chicken instead of pork keeps this dish light yet flavorful.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for cooking the penne pasta evenly until al dente.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and preparing the creamy sauce without transferring to another pan.
• Whisk: Helps in blending the ingredients smoothly, ensuring a lump-free sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces penne pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 small onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• Chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Season chicken cubes with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes).
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet:
1. Add the remaining butter.
2. Sauté diced onion until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the mixture:
1. Cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute.
2. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth and starting to thicken.

Step 5: Enrich the Sauce

Add cream cheese:
1. Stir until melted.
2. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until fully melted and sauce is thickened.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return chicken and penne to the skillet:
1. Toss everything together until evenly coated in Alfredo sauce.

Step 7: Final Touches

Simmer for a few minutes until heated through:
– Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
– Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Total time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo

Serving Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• This classic side pairs perfectly with your creamy pasta, providing a crunchy texture that complements the dish.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Offer Grated Cheese on the Side

• Providing additional shredded mozzarella or Parmesan allows guests to customize their plate for extra cheesy goodness.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Brightly colored steamed broccoli or asparagus adds both nutrition and color to your meal, making it more appealing.

Include a Zesty Lemon Wedge

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the pasta can enhance the flavors and add a refreshing note to each bite.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma and flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo

To create the best version of Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo, consider these essential tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs greatly improve flavor compared to dried alternatives.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure your penne is cooked just right; this prevents mushiness when mixed with the sauce.

• Control Heat When Adding Cream: Gradually adding cream while on low heat ensures it incorporates smoothly without curdling.

• Stir Constantly When Thickenings: This helps prevent lumps in your sauce, ensuring a silky smooth texture throughout.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning for optimum flavor balance.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Penne with flavorful side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine and creamy dressing that pairs well with rich pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables provide a healthy and colorful addition.
3. Caprese Skewers – Simple skewers of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer freshness.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers an Italian flair that complements pasta.
6. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, peppers, and lemon dressing adds protein and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while preparing Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking penne too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions and test for al dente texture.
• Underseasoning the Chicken: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavor. Use garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper generously.
• Not Using Enough Heat: Cooking on low heat can prevent the sauce from thickening. Make sure to use medium heat when combining ingredients for the sauce.
• Skipping the Cream Cheese: Omitting cream cheese can alter the creaminess of your sauce. Ensure you include it for a rich texture.
• Neglecting Garnish: Forgetting to garnish with parsley may make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances both presentation and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Chicken Penne in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag; it can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, and stir until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While penne works great, you can substitute with fettuccine or rigatoni for a different texture.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use less cheese for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Mozzarella Alfredo is an ideal comfort food dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting cheese types based on your taste preferences!