Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Comfort / American-Italian

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter

For the Pasta:

12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
Water + salt for boiling

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Add the Cheese

Lower heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Slice the chicken and place it on top or mix it into the pasta.
Simmer together for 2–3 minutes until everything is creamy and well combined.