Description
Mediterranean-inspired herb garlic chicken and creamy cheesy penne delight brings classic comfort with elegant Italian flair. Succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and rich cheese create a perfect dinner that brings pure satisfaction to your plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Pasta and Dairy Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and submerge the penne pasta, cooking until it reaches a tender yet firm texture. Carefully drain the pasta in a colander, allowing excess water to escape, and set aside.
- Select a spacious skillet and warm the olive oil over medium-high flame. Sprinkle the chicken pieces with a harmonious blend of aromatic herbs and seasonings, ensuring each morsel is generously coated. Gently place the seasoned chicken into the heated skillet, allowing it to sizzle and transform into a golden-brown delicacy.
- Simultaneously, initiate the cheese sauce preparation in a separate pan. Melt the butter until it shimmers, then introduce heavy cream, creating a luxurious base. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, developing a rich consistency. Gradually incorporate the trio of cheeses – cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan – whisking continuously until a smooth, velvety sauce emerges.
- Transfer the cooked penne into the cheese sauce, carefully folding and coating each pasta piece with the creamy mixture, ensuring a uniform and decadent coverage.
- Once the chicken achieves a perfect golden exterior and is thoroughly cooked, delicately fold the pieces into the cheese-laden pasta, creating a harmonious blend of protein and carbohydrates.
- Elevate the dish’s visual appeal and fresh flavor profile by sprinkling finely chopped parsley across the surface, adding a vibrant finishing touch before presenting this culinary masterpiece to eager diners.
Notes
- Elevate your weeknight dinner with this irresistible herb-infused chicken and cheesy pasta combo that combines restaurant-quality flavors with simple home cooking techniques.
- Carefully selecting high-quality herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil transforms ordinary chicken into a deeply aromatic main dish that complements the rich, creamy cheese sauce.
- Achieve perfectly tender chicken by cooking over medium-high heat and ensuring golden browning, which locks in moisture and develops a delicious caramelized exterior.
- Create a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce by gradually melting multiple cheese varieties and stirring continuously to prevent separation and ensure a silky texture.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce, providing a delightful flavor and visual contrast.
- Prep and cook time is approximately 30 minutes, making this an ideal recipe for busy home cooks seeking a delicious, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 870
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 53g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 44g
- Cholesterol: 190mg