Chicken Alfredo Penne with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Few dishes capture the comfort and elegance of Italian-American cuisine like Chicken Alfredo Penne. Tender, juicy chicken breast tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce—it’s indulgent, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious. Originating from the beloved Italian Fettuccine Alfredo, this version adds hearty chicken and penne pasta for a full, family-friendly meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet simple enough to make at home.

The luscious sauce, made from butter, cream, and Parmesan, clings beautifully to each tube of pasta, while a hint of garlic and black pepper brings depth and balance. It’s creamy comfort food at its finest—a dish that always earns second helpings and smiles around the table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect fusion of comfort and sophistication. Every forkful offers the richness of the Alfredo sauce, the tenderness of perfectly cooked chicken, and the satisfying bite of al dente penne.

It’s one of those meals that feels luxurious but comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for both a cozy night in or a special dinner with guests.

hy It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between richness and simplicity. It’s quick to prepare, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality result every time.

The Alfredo sauce is smooth, silky, and full of flavor—coating every piece of chicken and pasta perfectly.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 670 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, adds warmth and depth)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• Salt, for pasta water

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook penne pasta until al dente.
2. Sear seasoned chicken breasts until golden and cooked through; slice them.
3. Make the Alfredo sauce with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan.
4. Toss the pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce until well coated.
5. Serve hot with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 9–11 minutes.
• Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
• Remove from pan, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

• In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add butter.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously as it begins to warm.
• Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens (3–4 minutes).
• Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Add cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce.
• Toss gently until everything is well coated and heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra Parmesan over the top.
• Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve

Serve Chicken Alfredo Penne hot, garnished with a touch of parsley and freshly grated Parmesan. It pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
• A crisp Caesar salad or green garden salad
• A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

This dish is best enjoyed immediately when the sauce is silky and rich.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
• Don’t let the sauce boil; gentle simmering prevents it from splitting.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, replace half the cream with milk or chicken broth.
• You can cook the chicken ahead of time to save prep effort.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness if desired.

Variations

1. Shrimp Alfredo: Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood twist.
2. Vegetable Alfredo: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
3. Spicy Alfredo: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
4. Bacon Alfredo: Stir in crispy bacon bits for extra richness.
5. Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Works beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
• Reheating Tip: Avoid microwaving on high heat; use low heat to prevent sauce separation.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Deep skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Whisk (for smooth sauce)
• Sharp knife for slicing chicken

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Just slice and toss it into the sauce at the end to warm through.

Q2: Why did my Alfredo sauce separate?
This can happen if the sauce is overheated or if you add cheese too quickly. Always stir on low heat.

Q3: Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit more cheese to thicken it up.

Q4: Is it okay to use other cheeses?
Yes! You can mix in Romano or Asiago for a stronger flavor.

Q5: How can I make it more flavorful?
Add a pinch of Italian seasoning, extra garlic, or a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Penne with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a timeless comfort classic that delivers everything you crave — tender chicken, silky sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s indulgent yet balanced, rich yet bright, and irresistibly creamy without being heavy. Whether for a family dinner or a romantic night in, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.