Step-by-step instructions
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan mixture. This creates that delicious crust!
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside on a plate to rest.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the additional Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing gently until the pasta is well coated.
- Plate It Up: Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the creamy pasta. A garnish of fresh parsley or basil really elevates the presentation!
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce, presentation matters! Consider plating the creamy pasta in a shallow bowl, topping it with the sliced chicken for a deconstructed look. For an extra touch, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Pair it with a simple side salad or sautéed vegetables for a vibrant, balanced meal.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, transfer any uneaten chicken and pasta to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place the chicken and pasta separately in freezer-safe containers; it can last up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Helpful cooking tips
- Crispier Chicken: For an extra crunchy coating, consider double-dipping the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs.
- Low and Slow Cream Sauce: Avoid boiling your sauce; simmering gently preserves its creamy texture.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce for a bright note!
Creative twists
Want to shake things up? Try adding some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the creamy sauce for an earthy twist. Alternatively, replace the heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half for fewer calories. For those who love spice, incorporate jalapeños or more red pepper flakes into the sauce!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process from prep to table can take about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and tasty option for dinner.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully, any pasta you love – like fettuccine or rigatoni – can be swapped in.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Now it’s time to enjoy creating this delicious meal! Grab those ingredients and get cooking—it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation.
