Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta is a luxurious fusion of bold, comforting flavors — golden-seared chicken smothered in garlic butter, layered with sharp cheddar and nutty parmesan, and paired with creamy, sauce-coated penne pasta. Each bite balances richness and warmth, making it a perfect weeknight indulgence or weekend family favorite.

It’s a dish that feels like a restaurant classic but is simple enough to make at home — a celebration of cheese, garlic, and tender chicken in perfect harmony.

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Origin and Cultural Significance

The roots of this dish lie in the timeless Italian-American tradition of creamy pasta comfort food. While Alfredo and garlic butter sauces have Italian origins, the combination of cheddar and parmesan reflects American creativity — fusing two cheese cultures into one irresistible meal.

Cheese and garlic have symbolized hospitality and flavor in Mediterranean cooking for centuries. The addition of butter and cream turns this dish into a symbol of modern comfort — hearty, familiar, and soul-satisfying. It represents culinary evolution, where old-world techniques meet contemporary indulgence.

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Ingredients Quantity

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g total)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta & Sauce:

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half

½ cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Optional Additions

Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for color and nutrition.

Spice: Sprinkle chili flakes or paprika for a hint of heat.

Protein twist: Substitute shrimp or turkey for variation.

Cheese mix: Use mozzarella or asiago alongside cheddar and parmesan for a deeper flavor profile.

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Tips for Success

1. Pound chicken evenly: Ensures even cooking and tender texture.

2. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Searing in batches helps get that perfect golden crust.

3. Use freshly grated cheese: It melts better and enhances creaminess.

4. Reserve pasta water: A splash helps loosen and enrich the sauce.

5. Season in layers: Taste as you go to balance saltiness from cheeses.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta:

Boil penne pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and sear 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter:

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cheddar and parmesan, stirring until slightly melted and creamy. Return chicken to the pan and coat with the cheesy garlic butter mixture.

4. Prepare the Creamy Pasta Sauce:

In another pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Sauté garlic briefly, then pour in cream. Stir in cheddar, parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.

5. Combine and Serve:

Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing until evenly coated. Add reserved pasta water as needed for a silky texture.
Serve pasta on plates and top with cheesy garlic butter chicken. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan.

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Description

The dish gleams with a golden richness — tender chicken bathed in a silky garlic butter sauce, its surface glistening with melted cheddar and parmesan. The creamy penne, with its velvety coating, offers a gentle contrast — every bite uniting the savory, buttery depth of the sauce with the mild sweetness of perfectly cooked pasta. The aroma of garlic and cheese fills the air, inviting warmth and satisfaction with every forkful.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

Calories: 620 kcal

Protein: 38 g

Fat: 35 g

Carbohydrates: 40 g

Fiber: 2 g

Sodium: 580 mg
(Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.)

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Conclusion

This Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta is the essence of indulgence — simple ingredients elevated by careful preparation and balance. It’s a dish that comforts, nourishes, and delights, turning everyday dinner into an occasion. The golden chicken and creamy pasta pair perfectly, satisfying both heart and appetite.

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Recommendation

Serve with:

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance richness.

Garlic bread or toasted baguette for extra texture.

A light white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Storage:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

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Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This dish celebrates the beauty of balance in cooking — comforting yet mindful, rich yet nourishing. The protein-packed chicken and calcium-rich cheeses offer real substance, while homemade preparation keeps it free of excess additives.

Indulgence here isn’t about excess — it’s about savoring quality, craftsmanship, and warmth in every bite. Whether shared at the family table or enjoyed solo after a long day, this meal brings both pleasure and peace — proof that food made with love is the healthiest indulgence of all.