If you have a craving for a rich, comforting pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This recipe brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and an irresistible blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, all swirled together with garlic butter and sun-dried tomatoes for just the right pop of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish delivers creamy indulgence with every bite that is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but play crucial roles in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this recipe so memorable. Each element, from the buttery chicken to the trio of cheeses, enhances the dish’s rich, creamy profile while the sun-dried tomatoes add a subtle tangy brightness.
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness and a silky base to cook the chicken and develop flavor.
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced: Provides hearty protein and pairs perfectly with creamy sauces.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory depth that complements the cheese.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully with its tube shape, making every bite deliciously coated.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Brings a smooth, creamy texture that balances the richness of the other cheeses.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts wonderfully to add stretch and gooey comfort to the sauce.
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided): Offers sharp, nutty notes that elevate the overall cheese blend.
- 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Adds bursts of tangy sweetness and chewy texture that contrast the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or Italian seasoning: Lends herbaceous freshness and a pop of color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Splash of pasta water (as needed): Helps to loosen the sauce for a perfectly silky consistency.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This ensures your penne is perfectly seasoned from the inside out. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, boiling it just enough to have a pleasing bite. Drain it carefully and set it aside while you prepare the rich sauce and chicken.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken in Butter
Next, melt half of your butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken breasts, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Cook the pieces until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust and are cooked through, usually around 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds a wonderful savory base for your sauce.
Step 3: Infuse Garlic Flavor
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir it around for 1 to 2 minutes until you can smell that irresistible garlic aroma filling your kitchen. This step deepens the flavor, making the dish taste even more comforting and layered.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat to low to avoid burning the cheese. Now stir in the ricotta, mozzarella, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until the cheese melts into a smooth, luscious sauce. If the mixture seems too thick at this point, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up, giving you that perfect silky texture.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
It’s time for the magic moment — add your cooked penne to the skillet and gently toss it so every piece is coated in that indulgent, creamy cheese sauce. This melds all the flavors together and ensures every bite is rich and satisfying.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Finally, sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the pasta along with the remaining parmesan cheese. Top off the dish with fresh parsley or your favorite Italian seasoning for a bright, fresh contrast. Serve immediately while it’s hot, and get ready for compliments all around!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil right before serving not only adds a lovely pop of color but also a fresh aroma that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. A final dusting of parmesan cheese ensures every forkful is cheesy perfection.
Side Dishes
This rich pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Try a simple green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the indulgent main dish. Garlic bread is also a classic companion to mop up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs and extra sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet touch. You can even sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so be ready to loosen it up with a little milk or cream when reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or breaking the sauce. Add a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water to restore the creamy consistency so it tastes fresh and luscious again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta besides penne?
Absolutely! While penne works great because its shape holds onto the sauce perfectly, other pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle will work wonderfully with this creamy three-cheese sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to keep the dish filling and flavorful without losing the creamy appeal.
Can I substitute the three cheeses with other varieties?
Feel free to experiment! Parmesan, ricotta, and mozzarella create a beautiful harmony, but swapping in fontina, provolone, or even gouda can add interesting new flavor notes.
How do I keep the sauce from sticking to the pan?
Cooking over low heat and stirring frequently helps maintain the smooth texture. Adding a splash of pasta water or milk if it thickens too much also prevents sticking.
What goes well with Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce Recipe for a wine pairing?
A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully to cut through the richness and complement the garlic and cheese flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of comforting flavors and simple ingredients done right. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or a relaxed dinner with friends, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and that warm, satisfied feeling at the table. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne features tender diced chicken sautéed in butter and garlic, tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and a luscious three-cheese sauce made from ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, this comforting dish is simple to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- Splash of pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
- Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat to low and add ricotta, mozzarella, and half of the parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine until the cheeses melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the pasta with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, the remaining parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley or Italian seasoning. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- If you prefer, substitute Italian seasoning with fresh basil or oregano for a different herb flavor.
- A splash of pasta water is crucial to adjust the sauce’s consistency and help it coat the pasta smoothly.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and meltability.
- You can substitute penne with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli.
- For a richer taste, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
