🍽️ Introduction:
This dish is the ultimate fusion of bold flavor and creamy comfort. Tender, golden-seared chicken is smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, then paired with penne pasta tossed in a silky cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and nutty parmesan. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry family—or impressing guests.
📝 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (halved horizontally to make 4 cutlets)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
For the Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Pasta:
- 10 oz (about 3 cups) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions & Method:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken cutlets and sear for about 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tbsp butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and baste it with the garlic butter for a minute. Turn off the heat and cover to keep warm.
3. Make the Creamy Cheddar Parmesan Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Lower heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Stir until smooth and melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Combine & Serve:
- Toss the cooked penne pasta into the cheese sauce and coat evenly.
- Serve pasta on plates or a large serving dish.
- Top each portion with garlic butter chicken.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.
🥂 Serving Tips:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette makes a perfect fresh contrast to the richness.
- For a wine pairing: go for a buttery Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir.
🔁 Variations:
- Add veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.