Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Gouda Parmesan Sauce

Step-by-step instructions

Start by cooking the penne pasta in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later!
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken strips with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
In that same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for roughly 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Reduce the heat and pour in the chicken broth along with the heavy cream. Whisk in the cream cheese, stirring until smooth.
Stir in the shredded Gouda and grated Parmesan, letting them melt into that beautiful sauce. If you like a little kick, toss in some red pepper flakes, and adjust the sauce’s consistency with that reserved pasta water.
Finally, combine the cooked penne with your creamy sauce. Gently fold in the seared chicken until everything is perfectly coated in that rich goodness.
Serve up on plates, garnished with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

Best ways to enjoy it

To elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken Penne experience, consider plating it in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce. Pair it with a light side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A simple garlic bread would also compliment the dish beautifully. For drinks, chilled white wine or an iced tea infused with lemon can balance the richness of the meal perfectly.

How to store

If you have leftovers (and they’re definitely worth saving!), let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to reheat it gently, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the creamy sauce as it reheats.

Helpful cooking tips

For a dish this rich, it’s essential to choose high-quality ingredients, particularly your cheeses. Freshly grated Parmesan and Gouda will give you a creamier texture and a burst of flavor. Make sure not to rush the cooking—the garlic should be just fragrant, not burned, to ensure the best taste. Also, don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it helps to create the perfect sauce consistency.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Try adding some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition. You could even swap the chicken for shrimp or broccoli for a delightful vegetarian version. Experimenting with different herbs like fresh basil or thyme can also encourage a unique twist on this classic flavor profile.

Common questions

How long does this recipe take to prepare?
From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Can I make it ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can make it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently when ready to serve.

What about dietary adjustments?
This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free penne and checking the labels of the chicken broth and cheeses. For a lighter version, opt for half-and-half instead of heavy cream.