Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe

There is nothing quite like cozying up with a comforting plate of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe—a dish that masterfully blends tender chicken, luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked twisted pasta, all enveloped in a blanket of melted cheeses. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and indulgence to your dinner table, making every bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a simple yet essential lineup of ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the aromatic garlic and Italian seasoning that perfume the chicken to the creamy blend of cheeses that give the sauce its signature lusciousness, every component plays a vital role.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: sliced thin to ensure quick cooking and even seasoning.
• Olive oil: used for searing the chicken, adding a subtle fruity richness.
• Italian seasoning: a perfect herb blend that enhances the chicken’s flavor profile.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli): the spiral shapes trap sauce wonderfully for each bite.
• Butter: split between creating the sauce base and sautéing garlic for depth.
• Garlic cloves: minced fresh to deliver that unmistakable aromatic punch.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): add a touch of heat that perks up the creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: for the smooth, velvety texture that coats every ingredient.
• Chicken broth: introduces a savory foundation that balances the richness.
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: for sharpness and that classic Italian taste.
• Cream cheese, softened: helps create a silky, indulgent sauce consistency.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded: melts beautifully for gooey cheesiness.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness as a garnish.
• Reserved pasta cooking water: a secret weapon to adjust sauce consistency easily.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add your twisted pasta and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the package instructions. Before draining, save half a cup of that starchy pasta water, which will come in handy later when you’re adjusting the sauce consistency. Drain the pasta and set aside so it’s ready to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season your sliced chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken strips until they turn golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Start the Sauce

Using the same skillet, now full of all those wonderful chicken drippings, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss in minced garlic and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté for just a minute or two until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt—this is the foundation of your sauce’s incredible flavor.

Step 4: Create the Cream Base

Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to blend and scraping up any browned bits left behind by the chicken. Allow this mixture to come to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes so it thickens slightly and deepens in flavor, setting the stage for the cheesy components.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Turn the heat down low and gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the cream base. Next, add the softened cream cheese piece by piece, stirring until it’s completely incorporated, making the sauce irresistibly silky. Finally, mix in the shredded mozzarella, letting it melt completely for that luscious, stringy cheesiness. If the sauce thickens too much, gently add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach a perfect creamy consistency.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return your cooked chicken, along with any juices on the plate, back into the skillet. Then add the drained twisted pasta and toss everything meticulously so every pasta twist and chicken piece is coated in the velvety garlic Parmesan sauce. Let it simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes to marry the flavors beautifully and ensure everything is piping hot.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh taste. Don’t forget an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese to elevate this dish even further. Serve immediately to experience the sauce at its creamiest and most indulgent state.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a peppery freshness that balances the richness. For an extra touch, a crack of freshly ground black pepper and a handful of Parmesan cheese on top take this dish from delicious to spectacular.

Side Dishes

If you want to round out your meal, consider serving with a crisp green salad lightly dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. The lightness and crunch complement the creamy pasta and cut through its richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, try plating the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls, garnished with microgreens or basil leaves. Alternatively, bake it briefly with an extra layer of mozzarella on top to brown and bubble for an irresistible cheesy crust. It’s a guaranteed showstopper!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so a little reheating with added cream or pasta water can bring back its creamy texture beautifully.

Freezing

This dish isn’t the best candidate for freezing due to the creamy sauce, which can separate when thawed. However, if you do want to freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

For reheating, warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce. Microwaving is possible but do it in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken or curdling the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While twisted pasta like rotini or fusilli is ideal for catching sauce, penne, farfalle, or even cavatappi would work beautifully as well. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You can lighten up the dish by swapping heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk and using reduced-fat cheese varieties. Using skinless chicken breast keeps it lean, and adding more vegetables on the side can boost nutrition without compromising flavor.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can cook and slice the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it. Pasta can also be cooked earlier and quickly reheated. Just make the sauce fresh for the best creamy texture and flavor.

What can I do if the sauce becomes too thick?

Simply stir in a little of the reserved pasta cooking water or additional cream a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce back to your preferred consistency. The starchy water is perfect because it doesn’t dilute flavor.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil, use coconut or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and choose dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different but still enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you fall in love with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe as much as I have. Its rich, comforting flavors and easy preparation make it a fantastic weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Gather your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare for many compliments at your table!

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