Description
A creamy and comforting Cheesy Chicken Pasta dish made with tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich cheese sauce featuring mozzarella and Parmesan. This one-pan skillet recipe combines garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional fresh spinach for a flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in Italian seasoning and the uncooked penne pasta. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook the pasta for 10-12 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cream: Once pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Add the cooked chicken pieces, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheeses melt and the pasta and chicken are well combined.
- Add Spinach: If using, add fresh spinach leaves and cook for about 1 minute until the spinach is wilted and incorporated.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let the pasta sit for a few minutes to thicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- This recipe is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
