Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

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Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with cheesy comfort, this Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce is everything a cozy dinner should be. The dish combines tender penne pasta with juicy seared chicken, all coated in a rich, velvety sauce made from a trio of cheeses that melt right into each bite. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough for a special occasion.

The garlic butter base adds a fragrant depth that enhances the richness of the creamy cheese sauce. When the buttery chicken bites meet that creamy pasta, it’s a match made in food heaven. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having guests over, this pasta is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

This dish hits all the right notes: rich, creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder that turns humble ingredients into a craveable masterpiece. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to every ridge of the penne pasta, while the garlic butter-infused chicken delivers protein-packed flavor in every forkful.

With a medley of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese, the sauce delivers both silkiness and depth. Plus, the use of pantry staples makes this recipe a dependable go-to when you want something hearty and homemade.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work wonderfully in this recipe. If you prefer more flavor and a bit more juiciness, go for thighs. For a leaner version, stick with breasts. The key is to cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces and sear them until golden brown to lock in that buttery, garlicky flavor.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

To bring this luscious pasta dish to life, you only need a handful of flavorful ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. Each one plays an essential role in building the creamy, garlicky magic that defines this meal.

• Penne pasta: Holds onto the creamy cheese sauce beautifully with its ridged shape.
• Chicken breasts or thighs: Tender bites of protein that soak up the garlic butter perfectly.
• Garlic cloves: The soul of this dish, giving it that signature bold aroma and taste.
• Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and chicken, creating the base of flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds melty, stringy richness to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, salty depth that balances the creamy elements.
• Cream cheese: The secret ingredient for a thick, silky, luxurious sauce.
• Heavy cream: Brings everything together into a dreamy, smooth consistency.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the flavor of every bite.
• Parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful garnish.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Don’t let it brown too much, or it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add the heavy cream and whisk gently. Then, fold in the mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the creamy garlic butter chicken penne and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

This indulgent pasta is best served hot, straight from the skillet to the plate, with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and maybe an extra pinch of grated Parmesan. The creamy texture and savory garlic butter flavor shine brightest when enjoyed fresh, making it ideal for a cozy dinner at home.

This recipe yields about 4 to 6 generous servings, depending on appetite and side dishes. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or storing some away for weekday lunches.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently over low heat to maintain the sauce’s silky texture. Microwaving works too, but be sure to stir halfway through to prevent hot spots.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Penne?

Garlic Bread

You can never go wrong with crusty, buttery garlic bread to mop up all that luscious sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and Parmesan make a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Its slightly charred edges and earthy flavor pair beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Sauteed Spinach

A quick side of garlicky greens adds a healthy, vibrant touch.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a cool, juicy element.

Lemon Asparagus

A bright and zesty side that balances the butteriness of the main dish.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Roasted sprouts with a tangy finish bring a nice contrast and some crunch.

White Wine

A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio elevates this meal to restaurant status.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you can’t get enough of creamy, savory, and ultra-satisfying pasta dinners like this Garlic Butter Chicken Penne, here are more dishes from the blog that you’ll love digging into:

• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a wholesome twist with green goodness.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini when you’re craving bold flavors and cheesy layers.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine for a citrusy take on chicken pasta.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti if you love a bubbly, oven-baked classic.
• Creamy Cajun Linguine for that spicy Southern flair.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it whenever those creamy pasta cravings hit.

And if you make this dish, let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you use chicken breasts or thighs? Did you sneak in extra cheese or add spinach?

I love seeing the delicious spins you all put on these dishes. Questions, tweaks, and feedback are always welcome – we learn from each other!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and more on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish!

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce brings cozy comfort to your table with minimal effort and major flavor. The balance of rich cheeses, savory garlic, and juicy chicken wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta is a dinnertime winner. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or meal-prepping for the week, this pasta delivers hearty satisfaction in every bite.

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