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–+ servings
Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Indulge in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne recipe packed with rich flavors and a three-cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter divided
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed, drained
  • 0.25 cup fresh chives chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Toss chicken cubes in olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown for 6-8 minutes. Set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and add penne pasta. Cook according to package directions.
  5. Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth.
  6. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
  7. Return chicken to skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes and lemon juice. Stir well and taste for seasoning.
  8. Garnish with fresh chives and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, add a splash of pasta water before combining everything; it helps the sauce cling to the pasta. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. You can substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat, use other short pastas, or try different melting cheeses. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to control spice levels, and don’t skip the lemon juice for a balanced flavor!
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