Delicious Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Crispy Parmesan Broccoli and Mushroom Basil Cream

Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

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Craving something deeply comforting but still impressive enough for guests? This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce checks all the boxes. Juicy, seasoned chicken bites are pan-seared in garlic butter and paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta. What truly makes this dish memorable is the silky, decadent sauce made from three kinds of cheese—each adding a unique layer of richness.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or looking for a new weeknight staple, this recipe brings the warmth and flavor you’re after. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable, blending textures and flavors in all the right ways. Once you try it, you’ll find it creeping into your rotation more often than you’d expect.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To execute this recipe effortlessly and get the most flavor, having the right tools is key. A large non-stick skillet is essential for cooking the chicken evenly and capturing all those garlic butter drippings. You’ll also want a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom for crafting a creamy, lump-free cheese sauce. Tongs help you flip chicken bites with control, while a whisk ensures your cheese sauce comes out velvety smooth.

Using a high-quality pasta strainer allows you to drain your penne without losing any to the sink, and a silicone spatula is perfect for stirring without scratching your pans. Lastly, a box grater will help you freshly grate cheese—which melts far better than pre-shredded alternatives.


Ingredients for the Delicious Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Crispy Parmesan Broccoli and Mushroom Basil Cream

Chicken Breast: The star protein of the dish, diced and seared for tender, golden bites.

Garlic Cloves: Crushed or finely minced, garlic infuses the butter with irresistible aroma and flavor.

Unsalted Butter: Used to cook the chicken and make the base of the cheese sauce, lending a creamy, rich base.

Penne Pasta: Its tube shape holds the thick cheese sauce beautifully, providing a satisfying bite.

Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the cheese sauce, delivering luxurious texture and depth.

Cream Cheese: Adds tang and richness, helping to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.

Mozzarella Cheese: For stretch and mild creaminess, mozzarella melts into the sauce effortlessly.

Parmesan Cheese: Provides sharpness and a salty edge to round out the flavor profile.

Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning essentials that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds a hint of freshness to the rich flavors.

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How To Make the Delicious Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Crispy Parmesan Broccoli and Mushroom Basil Cream

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the diced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt additional butter and stir in cream cheese until smooth. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, then add shredded mozzarella and parmesan, stirring until fully melted and silky. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir gently to combine. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Plate the pasta and top with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve warm.


How to Serve and Store Delicious Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Crispy Parmesan Broccoli and Mushroom Basil Cream

This dish shines when served straight from the skillet, still steaming with velvety cheese sauce. Plate it in shallow bowls for a rustic feel and finish with a light sprinkle of fresh parsley or shaved parmesan. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad to cut through the richness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream over low heat to restore the creaminess without drying out the chicken or pasta.


Frequently Asked Questions

What other types of pasta can I use?

Fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle also work well—anything that holds onto sauce is a good substitute.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken can save time. Just warm it in the garlic butter before adding to the pasta.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or even ricotta for a slightly different texture and flavor, though cream cheese provides the best consistency.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

Mild to medium, depending on how much you use. You can omit it altogether for a milder dish.

Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently with added cream.

What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli make excellent additions without overpowering the sauce.


Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, which offers a hearty twist with savory beef and tender bowtie noodles. Or explore the comforting layers of Buffalo Chicken Lasagna, where bold heat meets creamy texture.

For a more veggie-forward twist, the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup doubles as a great starter or a light pasta pairing. And if you’re craving something with smoky flair, the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni hits the mark with bold flavors and richness.

Finish off your meal with a scroll through my collection of daily recipes and pasta inspirations on Pinterest @LadyPlate.


Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for an easy weeknight option. Just click the Pin button.

If you try it, I’d love to know how it worked for you. Did you swap the cheeses? Try a different pasta shape? Leave a comment and let’s share how yours turned out—your spin might just inspire someone else.


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Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce

Delicious Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Crispy Parmesan Broccoli and Mushroom Basil Cream


  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A rich, creamy comfort meal featuring seared garlic butter chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious three-cheese sauce. This dish is both indulgent and easy to make, perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive main course.


Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

12 oz penne pasta

1 cup heavy cream

4 oz cream cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

1. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

3. Add chicken and sear until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

4. Cook penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

5. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and stir in cream cheese until smooth.

6. Gradually whisk in heavy cream, then add mozzarella and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

7. Stir in pasta, add reserved chicken, and mix everything to coat. Use pasta water to thin sauce if needed.

8. Top with fresh parsley and additional parmesan before serving.

Notes

Freshly grated cheese will melt better and yield a smoother sauce.

Avoid overheating the cheese sauce to prevent curdling.

Add veggies like spinach or broccoli for a complete one-skillet meal.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Pasta Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 25g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: garlic butter chicken pasta, creamy cheese penne, chicken penne dinner

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