There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta. When that pasta is paired with tender chicken, a rich garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked penne, you get a dish that feels both indulgent and homey. Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is one of those recipes that hits every note: savory, creamy, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying.

This garlic chicken pasta recipe is a favorite for weeknight dinners, special family meals, and even casual entertaining. It’s quick enough to make after work but impressive enough to serve to guests. The balance of juicy chicken, al dente penne, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce makes this dish unforgettable.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best creamy chicken penne pasta from scratch, plus expert tips, variations, and serving ideas to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

If you’re searching for a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:

✔️ Ready in under 40 minutes
✔️ Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
✔️ Rich, creamy garlic sauce without being heavy
✔️ Perfect for weeknights or entertaining
✔️ Customizable with veggies, herbs, or spice

It’s the kind of easy weeknight chicken pasta that tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook 5–6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and let simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Add Cheese & Seasoning
Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Everything
Return chicken to skillet. Add cooked penne and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

7. Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Cream Sauce

Use fresh garlic, not jarred, for bold flavor.
Grate your own Parmesan—it melts better and tastes richer.
Don’t boil the cream hard; gentle simmering keeps it silky.
Salt your pasta water generously—it’s your first layer of flavor.

Variations to Try

Spicy Garlic Chicken Penne: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Veggie Loaded: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta: Finish with lemon zest and juice for brightness.
Bacon Garlic Chicken Penne: Add crispy bacon for smoky depth.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Pair it with:

Garlic bread or focaccia
Simple green salad
Roasted broccoli or asparagus
Sparkling water with lemon

Fun Food Fact

Penne means “quills” in Italian, inspired by the shape of old-fashioned writing pens. Its ridges are perfect for holding onto creamy sauces like this garlic Parmesan dream.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is everything comfort food should be: warm, rich, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this garlic chicken pasta recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

Bookmark it, pin it, and make it part of your go-to dinner lineup.