Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

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🍗🧀 Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce — A Comfort Classic

🌟 Introduction

Few dishes feel as warm and satisfying as Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce. Crispy, golden chicken coated in savory Parmesan meets tender penne wrapped in a rich, velvety cream sauce. This is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—perfect for cozy family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave restaurant-style comfort at home.

🧾 Ingredients

For the Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

  • 2 chicken breasts (butterflied or cut into cutlets)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for frying)

For the Creamy Penne Sauce

  • 2 cups cooked penne pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or basil

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. In one bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Dip chicken into beaten egg, then coat well in the Parmesan mixture.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Remove and rest on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Combine

  1. Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss until well coated.
  2. Slice chicken and place on top of the creamy pasta.

🍳 Methods & Cooking Tips

  • Pan-frying gives the chicken its crispy crust.
  • Simmering the sauce gently prevents curdling.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth texture.
  • For extra richness, add a splash of pasta water to the sauce.

📜 History & Inspiration

Parmesan-crusted meats and creamy pasta sauces come from classic Italian-American cuisine. Inspired by dishes like Chicken Alfredo and Chicken Parmesan, this recipe blends crispy textures with creamy comfort—an evolution of Italian flavors adapted for hearty, home-style cooking.

🧩 Formation of the Dish

This dish forms in layers:

  1. Crispy chicken for texture
  2. Creamy Parmesan sauce for richness
  3. Penne pasta to hold every drop of flavor

Together, they create a balanced, indulgent meal.

❤️ Who Will Love This Dish

  • Comfort-food lovers
  • Cheese enthusiasts 🧀
  • Pasta fans 🍝
  • Families and guests who enjoy creamy, hearty meals

🍽️ Serving Methods for Lovers

  • Serve with garlic bread or buttery rolls
  • Pair with a fresh green salad for balance
  • Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water
  • Sprinkle extra Parmesan for true cheese lovers 😍

✅ Conclusion

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is the definition of comfort done right—crispy, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. Easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.

✨ Don’t lose this recipe—save it, share it, and enjoy every bite!

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