Imagine a dish that combines the richness of four cheeses with tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta. That’s what this creamy four cheese chicken penne is all about. It’s cheesy, comforting, and sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is your go-to for a satisfying meal.
This dish is a celebration of flavors with a delightful mix of cheeses including mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and ricotta. The sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, creating a luxurious texture that’s both creamy and indulgent. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that will make you feel like a culinary expert.
Deliciously Cheesy Chicken Penne Pasta
This creamy four cheese chicken penne is a rich dish that captures the essence of comfort food.
Tender chicken breast combined with al dente penne pasta creates a satisfying base, while a luxurious blend of four cheeses brings depth of flavor to each bite.
The combination of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and ricotta creates a taste that is both creamy and slightly tangy, appealing to all cheese enthusiasts.
Preparation and Cooking Time
To whip up this delightful dish, start by allowing approximately 30 minutes in total for preparation and cooking.
With only 10 minutes for prepping ingredients and 20 minutes for cooking, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Gathering your ingredients beforehand will streamline the process, making it simple to get everything ready for cooking.
Key Ingredients for a Flavor Explosion
The primary components of this dish include penne pasta, diced chicken, and a variety of cheeses.
Olive oil, garlic, and heavy cream serve as the base for the rich sauce that clings deliciously to the pasta and chicken, enhancing every bite.
Seasoning with salt and pepper allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, making each plate irresistible.
Garnishing for Presentation
To elevate the visual appeal of your creamy four cheese chicken penne, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color.
The contrast between the vibrant green and the creamy pasta creates an inviting presentation.
Serving the dish alongside a glass of white wine on a rustic wooden table not only enhances the dining experience but also makes for a beautiful table setting.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a main course and pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or crusty garlic bread.
For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top before serving for an added kick.
Leftovers, if any, can be reheated and still maintain their creamy texture, making it a great option for meal prep.
Nutrition Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, this creamy four cheese chicken penne offers a satisfying meal with approximately 600 calories per serving.
With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, it can fit into a well-rounded diet while still being indulgent.
Enjoying this dish in moderation can be a delightful treat that satisfies your cheese cravings!
Deliciously Cheesy Chicken Penne Pasta
This creamy four cheese chicken penne is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a decadent blend of four cheeses. The taste is a fantastic balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy, making it a crowd-pleaser for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and ricotta cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the cheesy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 45g