Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender grilled chicken with rich, creamy pasta. It’s quick to make and perfect for a family dinner. Impress everyone with this easy recipe that will leave them asking for seconds.
If you love comforting dinners, you’ll also want to try my Creamy Chicken Spaghetti.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne
- Quick & Easy: You’ll have it on the table in about 30 minutes.
- Family Approved: Everyone will love the creamy sauce and juicy chicken.
- Budget-Friendly: It uses simple ingredients that don’t break the bank.
- Better Than Store-Bought: Homemade always tastes best.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make extra and freeze for a quick meal later.
This dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. Let me show you how simple it really is.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
How to Make the Best Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest.
- This is what gives it that beautiful char.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes smooth. Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on top of the creamy penne, garnishing with fresh parsley.
- You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is velvety and inviting.
How to Serve
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad for a light side. For a “wow” moment, serve the creamy penne in a large bowl with the grilled chicken beautifully sliced on top. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove so the pasta doesn’t become mushy.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Result
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; cook chicken in batches if necessary.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken beforehand.
- Stir the sauce constantly to prevent it from sticking.
- Customize the cheese; try adding mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Easy Variations to Try
- Swap the pasta for a gluten-free alternative if needed.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a flavor twist.
- Kick it up a notch by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken and cook the pasta ahead. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to combine and heat.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but it won’t be as rich. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut cream for a unique flavor.
Why did my Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne turn out too thick?
This usually happens if the sauce cooks for too long. Keep an eye on it, and if it thickens too much, stir in a bit of pasta water to loosen it up.
Can I freeze leftover Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne?
Yes, it freezes well! Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne is a must-try for easy weeknight dinners. It balances delicious flavors with simple preparation, making it a reliable go-to for families. I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a star rating and a comment!
Pin this recipe so you never lose it! Share it with a friend on Facebook who needs this. What’s your favorite twist? Tell me in the comments!
For a different approach, see this Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta.
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Grilled Chicken with Creamy Penne
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful dish combining tender grilled chicken with rich, creamy pasta, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest.
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the same pot and sauté for about a minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes smooth. Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on top of the creamy penne, garnishing with fresh parsley.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken beforehand and serve with a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg