When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as a perfectly grilled chicken breast served over a bowl of rich, creamy Alfredo penne. This dish combines smoky, juicy chicken with silky pasta coated in a luscious cream sauce that’s both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, hosting friends, or just craving something hearty after a long day, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

In this article, we’ll walk through the full recipe, explore substitutions and variations, and share expert tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results. By the end, you’ll know how to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes and dietary needs.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Restaurant-quality at home – Save money and skip takeout by making a dish that tastes like it came straight from an Italian restaurant.

2. Customizable – Swap in whole-wheat pasta, add vegetables, or even make it lighter with a few smart substitutions.

3. Perfect balance – The smoky, savory chicken balances beautifully with the richness of Alfredo sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful but not overwhelming.

4. Quick and doable – Despite its elegance, this recipe can be ready in under 40 minutes, making it weeknight-friendly.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break the recipe into three parts: the chicken, the pasta, and the Alfredo sauce.

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 200g penne pasta

• Salt for boiling water

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

2. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the cooking water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and add the Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

4. Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat every piece evenly. Transfer to serving plates or bowls, then top with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.

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Tips for the Best Alfredo Penne

• Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can make the sauce grainy.

• Don’t overcook the pasta – Al dente pasta holds its shape better and soaks up sauce beautifully.

• Rest the chicken – Slicing too early causes juices to run out, leaving the meat dry.

• Low and slow sauce – Don’t boil the cream; simmer gently to avoid curdling.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap in Greek yogurt for extra protein.

• Gluten-free: Replace regular penne with gluten-free pasta.

• Vegetable boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or roasted red peppers to the pasta.

• Protein swap: Instead of chicken, try shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair this dish with a side salad of mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness.

• Garlic bread or warm focaccia makes a perfect companion for soaking up extra Alfredo sauce.

• A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, elevates the meal into something truly special.

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Storage and Meal Prep

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating tips: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as cream sauces can separate.

• Meal prep option: Cook the chicken ahead of time, store separately, and prepare the sauce and pasta fresh when ready to eat for the best texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?
Yes! You can use whole milk and a little cream cheese to achieve a creamy texture. It won’t be as rich but still delicious.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze Alfredo pasta, the sauce may separate when thawed. If freezing, undercook the pasta slightly and reheat gently with extra cream or broth.

Q: What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. It has a saltier, sharper flavor that pairs well with creamy sauces.

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Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken with Creamy Alfredo Penne is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, indulgent experience that brings together smoky grilled chicken, tender pasta, and a velvety cream sauce. With a few simple ingredients and less than 40 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a dish that feels gourmet without the restaurant price tag.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite vegetables and flavors, this dish is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection. So grab your skillet, fire up the grill, and treat yourself to a plate of creamy, dreamy Alfredo penne tonight.