Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to create fillets that cook evenly. Gently pound them to about 1 inch thick for tenderness, and season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of dried herbs. Set aside while you prepare the Garlic Parmesan sauce.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Carefully place the seasoned chicken fillets in the pan and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 160°F. Once cooked, transfer to a plate and let them rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and sauté finely chopped shallots and minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Stir in a tablespoon of flour and cook for another minute, allowing the mixture to bubble and form a roux. This step is essential for creating a creamy sauce in your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta.

Gradually whisk in 1 cup of reduced-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of half-and-half. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring frequently to prevent any lumps. Add in a teaspoon of chicken bouillon and your selected spices to enhance the flavor profile of your luscious sauce.

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. Continue mixing until the sauce is creamy and well-blended, adjusting the heat as needed to ensure it doesn't bubble harshly.

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving about a cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the sauce along with the sliced chicken. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water gradually to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Taste your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and revel in the comforting flavors of this homemade favorite.