What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A rich and creamy sauce paired with golden parmesan-crusted chicken and homemade penne pasta, that’s what. This easy and quick recipe is a family favorite, made with tender chicken and a blend of savory parmesan cheese. Save this idea for a delicious homemade meal to enjoy any night of the week, try it soon.

Golden Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Penne with Creamy Sauce

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the comforting warmth of a homemade meal with the sophistication of a restaurant-quality sauce, all made easily with everyday ingredients. The Golden Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Penne with Creamy Sauce is just that – a harmonious blend of tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a golden, crispy parmesan crust. This recipe is a masterclass in balance and simplicity, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its ease of preparation, impressive presentation, and adaptability to various tastes, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This dish succeeds by balancing rich flavors with light, fresh notes, all achievable with ingredients commonly found in most kitchens.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, the recipe is straightforward and requires minimal specialized cooking techniques, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of a crispy parmesan crust, tender chicken, and creamy sauce creates a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a professional kitchen, with surprisingly little effort.

Key Ingredients

The foundation of this recipe lies in its key ingredients: chicken breasts for protein, penne pasta for a satisfying base, parmesan cheese for its distinctive flavor and texture, and a creamy sauce made with a combination of heavy cream, butter, and parmesan. Fresh parsley adds a bright, freshness, while garlic and onion provide depth. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions or swapping heavy cream with a lighter alternative for a healthier version. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility and the ability to adapt it to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic finely, slice the bell peppers into strips, and grate the parmesan cheese. Measure out the heavy cream, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced bell peppers and continue to cook until they start to tenderize. Add the chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Sprinkle flour to make a roux, whisking continuously, and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: To assemble the dish, slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. In a large serving dish or individual plates, create a layer of penne pasta, followed by slices of chicken, and then spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Sprinkle additional parmesan cheese over the sauce and place under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

• Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook a bit after draining. Al dente texture provides the best base for the dish.
• For an extra crispy parmesan crust, broil the dish for a couple of minutes after assembling. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• Consider using different colored bell peppers for a pop of color, or add some diced tomatoes for extra flavor and moisture.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the chicken and preparing the creamy sauce. For the chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. When making the sauce, medium heat is ideal for melting the butter and cooking the roux without burning it. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent the sauce from boiling over or sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the golden, crispy parmesan crust on top. To achieve this, it’s essential not to overmix the sauce, which can make it too thick and prevent the parmesan from browning evenly. When broiling, keep a close eye to ensure the top gets crispy and golden without burning. This texture contrast between the crunchy top, tender chicken, and al dente pasta is what makes the dish so satisfying.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grate it just before using for an even better taste.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary, to ensure each piece has enough room to cook evenly.
• For easier cleanup, prepare all ingredients before starting to cook, and wipe down surfaces as you go.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
• Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta, then make a fresh batch of sauce when you’re ready to serve.
• Use airtight, shallow containers for storing leftovers to prevent moisture from accumulating and making the dish soggy.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best served fresh, components of it can be gifted, such as a jar of homemade creamy sauce or a packet of parmesan cheese. Consider gifting the sauce in a decorative jar, wrapped with a ribbon and accompanied by a bag of penne pasta and some grated parmesan cheese, along with the recipe printed on a card. This makes for a thoughtful and practical gift for any food lover.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some dried basil or oregano to the sauce for an Italian twist, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Creative toppings: In addition to parmesan cheese, consider topping the dish with chopped fresh herbs, diced tomatoes, or even some toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
• Ingredient swaps: Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary restriction, or swap the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of heavy cream or pasta water to thin it out. If too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have heavy cream, a mixture of milk and butter can be used as a substitute, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through. For the pasta, taste it frequently towards the end of its cooking time to catch it when it’s perfectly al dente.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? While not recommended due to the potential separation of the creamy sauce, you can freeze cooked components like the pasta and chicken, then make fresh sauce when serving.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring the chicken and sauce ingredients are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, all ingredients can be doubled to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a larger skillet and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Conclusion

The Golden Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Penne with Creamy Sauce is a recipe that embodies the spirit of home cooking – it’s comforting, flavorful, and made with love. With its accessible ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a dish that anyone can make and enjoy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own, and share it with friends and family to spread the joy of a delicious, homemade meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire of favorite dishes.