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Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

Introduction

Rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying, Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is a comforting dish that brings the elegance of Italian cuisine into everyday home cooking. With crispy, cheesy chicken and velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce coating every bite of penne pasta, this meal is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or when you want to treat yourself.

Origin and Cultural Significance

This dish draws inspiration from Italian-American cuisine, which blends traditional Italian cooking techniques with American ingredients and portion styles. Parmesan-crusted chicken is a twist on Chicken Parmigiana, and creamy pasta dishes like this reflect a more modern, indulgent take on Italian fare. The combination of breaded meat with a creamy sauce over pasta is especially popular in U.S. restaurants and homes for its hearty and comforting nature.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crust)
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for added crispiness)

For the Pasta & Sauce:

12 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions

Crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Sautéed mushrooms or spinach (for added vegetables)
Sun-dried tomatoes (for tangy contrast)
Mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness)
Lemon zest (for brightness)

Tips for Success

Pound chicken breasts evenly for uniform cooking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
Cook pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth after cooking the chicken for added depth.
Don’t overheat the cream, or it can separate—keep it at a gentle simmer.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
- Boil penne in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Mix Parmesan cheese (and breadcrumbs if using) on a plate.
- Press chicken into the mixture to coat both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine & Serve:
- Add drained penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Slice the Parmesan-crusted chicken and serve over the creamy pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan if desired.

Description

This dish delivers a perfect combination of textures and flavors: the chicken is juicy with a crispy, cheesy crust, while the penne is bathed in a velvety, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. The fresh basil adds a light herbal note that balances the richness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 650–700
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 35g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 2g

Conclusion & Recommendation

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is a crowd-pleasing meal that feels fancy but is easy enough for a weeknight. It’s rich, hearty, and incredibly comforting. For dinner parties or potlucks, it’s a guaranteed hit—just serve with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To lighten it up:

Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Try whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
Bake the chicken instead of frying for a lower-fat option.
Add more veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach to bulk it up with fewer calories.

With these tweaks, you can enjoy this indulgent dish more often—guilt-free and still totally satisfying.

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