Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

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Golden seared chicken tossed with al dente penne pasta and drenched in a luxuriously creamy three-cheese sauce—this Garlic Butter Chicken Penne is what comfort food dreams are made of. Bursting with flavor from garlic, herbs, and a hint of smokiness from sun-dried tomatoes, this dish delivers the perfect balance of rich, savory, and satisfying.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight indulgence, this pasta recipe hits all the right notes. The creamy cheese sauce—made with a heavenly trio of mozzarella, parmesan, and cream cheese—coats every piece of pasta beautifully while the tender chicken adds that hearty protein punch you need. It’s an easy dinner you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

This dish brings together the heartiness of a home-cooked chicken dinner with the soul-soothing comfort of a creamy pasta. The use of three cheeses gives the sauce incredible depth, and when combined with juicy garlic butter chicken, it becomes downright irresistible. It’s also a one-pan-friendly recipe, meaning less clean-up and more time to enjoy your meal.

You’ll also love how customizable this recipe is—swap the penne for your favorite pasta, throw in some spinach or mushrooms, or spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes. It’s restaurant-quality pasta made simple.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Garlic Butter Chicken Penne?

Penne is a fantastic choice because its ridged surface holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, don’t feel restricted—rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine work well too. Just make sure whatever pasta you choose has enough surface area to soak up all that cheesy garlic goodness.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating a rich and flavorful experience. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:

• Chicken Breast – Lean and protein-packed, it’s the perfect meat for absorbing that garlic butter flavor.
• Penne Pasta – Its tube-like shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter and chicken with deep savory notes.
• Butter – Unsalted butter creates a rich base for the chicken and builds the flavor for the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Essential for a thick, silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Brings gooey meltiness and that stringy cheese pull we all love.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharpness and saltiness that balances the creamy textures.
• Cream Cheese – Gives the sauce a luscious texture and slight tang.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a burst of umami and a chewy texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Italian Seasoning – A mix of herbs that enhances the overall depth and warmth of the dish.
• Fresh Parsley – For a touch of freshness and color.
• Salt & Pepper – To enhance and balance all the other flavors.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in heavy cream and let it simmer. Stir in cream cheese until fully melted, followed by mozzarella and parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the drained pasta, sliced chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

This creamy garlic butter chicken penne is best served hot straight from the skillet. The sauce is at its peak creaminess right after cooking, making it a perfect main course for a dinner party or cozy night in. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

This recipe makes enough to comfortably serve 4 people, but you can double it for a bigger crowd or meal prep.

For storing, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Penne?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and buttery on the inside—garlic bread is a classic side that soaks up the extra sauce beautifully.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and parmesan brings a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli adds a toasty, slightly bitter note that balances the creamy main.

4. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a bright, light side option.

5. Grilled Asparagus

Simple and elegant, grilled asparagus adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the garlic chicken.

6. Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, marinated olives, and pickled vegetables make a great appetizer or side that enhances the Italian vibe.

7. Sparkling Water or White Wine

Serve with chilled sparkling water or a crisp glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness of the dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely. While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, you can also use boneless thighs for a juicier result. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta, chicken, and sauce separately, then store them in the fridge for up to a day. Combine and reheat before serving for the best texture.

3. Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

To make a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. It won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Add a splash of milk or cream to a skillet or microwave-safe bowl and heat gently to restore the sauce. Stir often to prevent separation.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Simply leave out the chicken or substitute with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even plant-based chicken alternatives.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add spinach? Did you go extra cheesy? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food and pasta ideas on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for flavorful meals!

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce is one of those meals that checks every box—hearty, creamy, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, it’s guaranteed to impress. With just a few staple ingredients and a bit of love, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. So grab your skillet and get cooking—this pasta is calling your name.

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