If you are craving a dish that combines indulgent creaminess with the perfect blend of garlic and cheese, then this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe is destined to become your new favorite comfort meal. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly seasoned and nestled atop a bed of twirly pasta that’s drenched in a luscious garlic-parmesan sauce with melted cheese strands pulling with every forkful. It’s a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that makes every bite a celebration of warmth and satisfaction. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe promises to bring joy to your table and smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking adventure, it’s wonderful to see how straightforward yet essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role in building that rich, savory flavor profile, from the creaminess of the heavy cream to the tangy sharpness of Parmesan and the satisfying stretch of melted cheese.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, offering juicy and tender bites that soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps get a perfect sear on the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings indulgence and a silky texture to the sauce and cooking fat.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Packs an aromatic punch that infuses every component with warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the creamy, luscious base for the sauce that’s nothing short of dreamy.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The rich, salty backbone of the sauce with a sharp, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Introduces classic herb notes that make the dish feel like a comforting Italian classic.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the chicken.
- 8 oz twisted pasta (like rotini or fusilli): The perfect pasta shape to catch all that glorious sauce in every twist.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create an irresistible cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to brighten the plate.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your twisted pasta until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning it still has a tiny bit of bite. Drain it well and set it aside; this pasta will soon soak up all the creamy goodness.
Step 2: Season the chicken
While the pasta cooks, give the chicken breasts a flavorful makeover by sprinkling salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning evenly over their surfaces. This seasoning mix imparts a balanced blend of heat, herbaceous aroma, and color that sets the stage for the star protein.
Step 3: Sear the chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until they shimmer. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest. This resting step ensures the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and juicy.
Step 4: Build the sauce
Without cleaning the pan, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just long enough for the garlic to release its fragrant aroma—about 30 seconds. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, letting it come to a simmer. This is when the magic starts to happen, as the cream begins to thicken and marry with the garlic flavor.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan and seasonings
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir steadily until the sauce thickens beautifully and coats the back of your spoon. Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed. The Parmesan creates that essential rich, savory depth that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 6: Combine pasta and cheese
Now, add the cooked twisted pasta directly into your creamy sauce, stirring well so every spiral and groove is generously coated. Next, fold in the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the sauce to create that perfectly gooey, cheesy texture you’ll swoon over.
Step 7: Plate with chicken and garnish
Slice your rested chicken breasts and either lay them on top of the cheesy pasta or serve alongside it on the plate. Finish the dish by sprinkling fresh parsley or basil over everything and, if you like, an extra dusting of Parmesan. This not only adds a lovely burst of color but also a fresh herbal contrast to the creamy richness.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a beautiful pop of green that brightens the plate visually and introduces a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that cuts through the creaminess. If you want a bit more oomph, a few red pepper flakes add a subtle spicy kick that complements the garlic and cheese wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish stands perfectly on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also work beautifully, bringing texture and a slightly smoky flavor that contrasts the creamy pasta and savory chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the chicken sliced and fanned over the pasta in shallow bowls for easy sharing. You can also twirl the cheesy pasta into nests and place a sliced chicken breast on each for an elegant touch. Adding a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few toasted pine nuts on top introduces delightful layers of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is quite likely because this dish is just that good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce will thicken upon cooling but will loosen back up when gently reheated.
Freezing
While the sauce may separate slightly after freezing, you can definitely freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Portion it before freezing to make your reheating easier, and remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the luscious creamy texture. Microwaving in short bursts with stirring in between also works well to maintain the sauce’s silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While twisted pasta like rotini or fusilli is ideal for holding onto the sauce, you can use penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente to avoid mushiness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the regular twisted pasta for a gluten-free alternative. Most grocery stores carry gluten-free rotini or similar-shaped pasta that cooks in the same way.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
You can! Chicken thighs will add a richer, juicier bite and work beautifully with the creamy sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half mixed with a little butter to mimic the richness, or use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How do I make the sauce less thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a splash of pasta cooking water, milk, or cream until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water also helps the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm culinary hug. It’s so satisfying to make and even more rewarding to share. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s the perfect way to add a touch of cozy elegance to any meal, leaving you and your loved ones coming back for seconds and smiles all around.
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce combined with melted mozzarella and perfectly cooked twisted pasta. Garnished with fresh herbs, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta & Cheese
- 8 oz twisted pasta (like rotini or fusilli)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Sear Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter until melted and hot. Add the chicken breasts and cook 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest on a plate before slicing.
- Sauté Garlic & Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously until it just starts to simmer.
- Add Parmesan & Thicken Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta & Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet, stirring to coat all the pasta thoroughly. Then add the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese and stir gently until the cheese melts completely into the sauce.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and serve them on top of or alongside the cheesy garlic parmesan pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- You can use any short twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini for best sauce adherence.
- Resting the chicken after cooking ensures juicy slices and prevents dryness.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
