The Ultimate Creamy Herb & Garlic Chicken Penne
If you are looking for a restaurant-quality meal that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Herb & Garlic Chicken Penne is the perfect choice. It combines tender, golden-brown chicken breast with a velvety white sauce, all infused with aromatic Mediterranean herbs. This dish is the definition of comfort food—rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
1. Ingredients (The Precise Measurements)
To get that perfect consistency and flavor shown in the picture, you will need:
- The Pasta: 500g Penne Rigate (the ridges are perfect for holding the sauce).
- The Protein: 2 large chicken breasts (approx. 400g), cut into thin strips or bite-sized cubes.
- The Creamy Base: 400ml heavy cooking cream and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water.
- Aromatics & Fats: 3 cloves of fresh garlic (minced), 1 tbsp unsalted butter, and 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil.
- Herbs & Seasoning: 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
- The Finish: 100g freshly grated Parmesan or white cheddar, and a handful of chopped fresh parsley.
2. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta to Perfection
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt (it should taste like the sea). Add the penne and cook for about 8–10 minutes until al dente.
Important: Before draining the pasta, scoop out 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. This is the secret to a silky, cohesive sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Sauté the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust on all sides. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Build the White Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wash it—those brown bits are packed with flavor!), turn the heat down to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and the reserved pasta water. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the remaining herbs and half of the cheese. Let it bubble for 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Step 4: The Final Toss
Add the cooked penne and the golden chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes over low heat. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, becoming incredibly flavorful. If the sauce is too thick, add a tiny splash more cream or water.
3. Pro Tips for Success
- Fresh Garlic: Always use fresh garlic instead of powder for a deeper, more authentic aroma.
- Don’t Overcrowded: When searing the chicken, make sure the pieces aren’t overlapping so they brown properly instead of steaming.
- Consistency: If you want a more “cheesy” pull, add a mix of Mozzarella and Parmesan at the very end.
- Serving: Serve immediately in warm bowls. Garnish with more fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
