I’ve made a lot of pasta dishes in my kitchen, but few deliver the kind of satisfaction that this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta does. The combination of juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs nestled next to rich, creamy penne drenched in a garlicky parmesan sauce is the stuff comfort food dreams are made of. This is the dish I turn to when I want to impress guests—or simply treat myself to something incredible after a long day.

What I love most is how this recipe balances indulgence with simplicity. You get layers of flavor from the seared chicken, a velvety sauce with real depth thanks to the garlic and cheese, and pasta that soaks it all up perfectly. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea, a satisfying meal prep option, or just a way to shake up your weeknight cooking, this one will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Comfort Food Classic: It’s warm, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a hearty meal.

Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for spring with fresh herbs, but cozy enough for chilly nights.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: You’ll feel like you’re dining at a bistro, but it’s all made in your kitchen.
Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as good the next day (if not better).

Customizable: You can swap the pasta or even turn it into a baked casserole with breadcrumbs on top.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

While penne pasta is the classic choice in this dish, I’ve also made it with rigatoni, fettuccine, and even shells—and each one brings something slightly different to the table. I stick with penne or rigatoni when I want those little tubes to catch every bit of the creamy garlic sauce. Their ridges are perfect for holding onto flavor, and they don’t get mushy even after reheating. If you’re craving a silkier texture, fettuccine will give you that luscious slurp-worthy experience.

That said, don’t be afraid to use whatever pasta you have on hand. The real star is the sauce and chicken—just make sure your pasta has enough surface area to hold that garlicky parmesan goodness. Short pastas like ziti or even cavatappi also work beautifully.

Options for Substitutions

You can absolutely tweak this recipe to fit your pantry or dietary needs. Here are a few options that work well without compromising flavor:

Chicken Thighs → Chicken Breasts: If you prefer white meat, use boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just be cautious not to overcook them.
Heavy Cream → Half and Half or Coconut Cream: Want a lighter option? Half and half gives a slightly thinner sauce. For a dairy-free version, unsweetened coconut cream works surprisingly well.

Parmesan Cheese → Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano: These hard cheeses bring the same salty, nutty kick.
Pasta → Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap in your favorite gluten-free brand. Just cook it al dente so it doesn’t break down in the sauce.
Add Veggies: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli make excellent mix-ins for added texture and nutrition.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Every component in this dish has a role to play—from building flavor to creating that creamy, dreamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
I use thighs for their juiciness and rich flavor. They stay tender even after searing and reheating.
Olive Oil & Butter
A combo of both gives a rich base for searing the chicken and building the sauce. Olive oil prevents burning, while butter adds flavor.

Garlic (freshly minced)
This is where the magic begins. Garlic infuses the sauce with deep, savory aroma and taste—don’t skimp!
Heavy Cream
For a velvety, thick sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. It also balances the saltiness of the cheese.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
Adds sharp, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce naturally. Use a wedge and grate it yourself if possible—it melts better.

Penne Pasta
The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the sauce. Its hollow tubes and ridges are ideal for creamy dishes.
Italian Seasoning
A mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary to enhance both the chicken and the sauce with aromatic herbal notes.
Salt & Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning every layer—from the chicken to the sauce to the pasta water.

Fresh Parsley (chopped)
A pop of green to finish the dish and add freshness. It balances the richness.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
For a subtle heat that cuts through the creaminess if you like a little spice.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this helps them brown better. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a touch of red pepper flakes if using. Heat a mix of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is searing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until just al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken (don’t wipe it clean—you want all that flavor), lower the heat to medium and add a bit more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and let it gently simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Then toss in the cooked penne pasta and mix until each piece is coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Slice or leave the chicken thighs whole, and serve them on top or to the side of the cheesy penne. Sprinkle everything with chopped fresh parsley and extra parmesan if you’d like. Serve hot—and enjoy every bite!

How Long to Cook Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

This dish comes together in about 35–40 minutes total, making it a great option for weeknights when you want something comforting but not too time-consuming. Here’s the breakdown:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Chicken: ~12 minutes
- Sauce & Pasta: ~15–18 minutes

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done, and the sauce should gently simmer until creamy and thickened.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Pat the Chicken Dry: This ensures a good sear and locks in moisture.
Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic from a jar won’t give the same depth—fresh is best here.

Grate Your Own Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for just al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is gold for loosening and emulsifying the sauce.

Let the Sauce Thicken Slowly: Don’t rush it. Simmer over medium heat and stir occasionally.
Rest the Chicken Before Slicing: Let it sit for a couple minutes to lock in juices.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this dish is pretty straightforward, a few common missteps can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcrowding the Pan: If you add all the chicken at once, it’ll steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed to get that golden crust.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It doesn’t melt as smoothly and can cause the sauce to clump or become gritty.
Boiling the Sauce: High heat can cause the cream to separate. Keep it to a gentle simmer while adding cheese.

Skipping Pasta Water: It adds silkiness and helps the sauce cling better to the pasta—don’t forget to save some before draining.
Underseasoning: Each layer should be seasoned well—taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Adding Garlic Too Early: Garlic can burn quickly. Add it after lowering the heat, just before the cream.

Serving Immediately After Mixing: Let everything rest for a minute or two to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to cling.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta?

Pairing this dish with the right sides turns it into a full, memorable meal. Here are some of my go-to options:

Garlic Bread

The classic combo. Use crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce—it’s practically required.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery, lemony arugula salad balances the richness and adds freshness.

Roasted Broccoli with Lemon

Oven-roasted broccoli tossed in lemon juice and sea salt adds texture and brightness.

Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Fresh, acidic, and herbaceous—it’s a light starter that gets the appetite going.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

A healthy, quick side that complements the creamy pasta without overpowering it.

Glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

The buttery notes of a Chardonnay or the crisp acidity of Pinot Grigio pair beautifully with the richness of the dish.

Lemon-Parmesan Asparagus

Grilled or oven-roasted asparagus with lemon zest and a sprinkle of parmesan is an elegant touch.

Storage Instructions

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools—add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring it back to life.
Freezer: You can freeze it, but cream-based sauces can separate. If you do, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months, and reheat gently on the stove with extra cream.

Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until heated through.

Tip: Store the chicken and pasta separately if you know you’ll be reheating in batches—it keeps the texture better.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 servings)

Please note these are rough estimates and can vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Calories: 720 kcal

Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 42g

Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 155mg
Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 620mg
Unsaturated Fat: 17g

Trans Fat: 0g
Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups
Category: Dinner

Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Can be adapted to gluten-free or low-carb

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half and half or even whole milk (though the sauce will be thinner). You can also use chicken breasts instead of thighs and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well—just add it at the end when you’re combining it with the pasta and sauce to heat through.

What other cheeses can I use besides parmesan?

Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even a sharp white cheddar can be swapped in. Just avoid soft cheeses like mozzarella—they’ll affect the texture of the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, peas, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers are great additions. Stir them in toward the end so they stay vibrant and don’t overcook.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat medium to low while simmering. Never let it boil. Stir gently and consistently when adding the cheese to help emulsify everything smoothly.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently. It’s rich and savory. If you like a little kick, add red pepper flakes during the garlic step or as a garnish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well. For the best results, cook everything but don’t combine the chicken and pasta until just before serving. Store the components separately.

What’s the best way to reheat this?

Use a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream. Stir gently until warmed through. Microwave works too, but the stovetop gives better texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something memorable. From the rich, golden-seared chicken to the velvety garlic-laced sauce that clings to every piece of pasta, it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself on a cozy night in, this recipe is a guaranteed hit—and you’ll want to make it again and again.