Welcome to my cozy kitchen, where every recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate! Today I’m thrilled to share my spin on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta—a dish so comforting and flavorful it practically invites you to kick off your shoes and stay a while. Tender chicken breasts soak up a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan sauce, while fusilli (or your favorite twisted pasta) captures every creamy swirl of goodness. The first time I made this, my kids hovered around the stove, noses twitching at the promise of melted cheese and garlic magic. By the time dinner landed on the table, even my picky nephew was asking for seconds. It’s that kind of meal.
Every forkful delivers a harmony of rich cream, sharp Parmesan, and bright Italian seasoning, balanced by the rustic chew of al dente pasta. Whether you’re serving this for a special family night or simply craving the ultimate comfort dinner, you’ll find it comes together in about 45 minutes from prep to table. With an intermediate difficulty level, it’s a fun kitchen adventure—perfect for home cooks wanting to step up their weeknight game. And did I mention that each serving clocks in at around 620 calories? A delicious indulgence that’s well worth every bite!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN WITH CHEESY TWISTED PASTA
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s unpack the star performers that make this dish irresistible. Each ingredient brings its own unique flair—some add hearty depth, others a creamy silkiness, and together they create a symphony of flavor you won’t stop daydreaming about.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean, tender, and quick to cook, these chicken breasts form the hearty protein base that soaks up all that creamy sauce.
- Salt: A simple seasoning superstar, salt enhances every other flavor and ensures your chicken and sauce taste balanced and well-rounded.
- Black pepper: With a touch of warmth and a hint of spice, freshly ground black pepper provides a subtle kick that cuts through the richness.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, olive oil adds a fruity note and helps develop that beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Garlic (minced): Garlic’s pungent, aromatic quality infuses the sauce with a depth of flavor—sautéed just until fragrant, it sets the stage for all that cheesy goodness.
- Heavy cream: The soul of the sauce, heavy cream brings luxurious body and a silky texture that clings to every spiral of pasta.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Sharp, nutty, and tangy, Parmesan melts seamlessly into the cream, delivering that signature Parmesan punch.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, this seasoning mix introduces lively herbal notes that brighten the dish.
- Chicken broth: Adding broth stretches the sauce and infuses extra savory depth, while keeping the sauce smooth and flavorful.
- Twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini): These corkscrew-shaped noodles trap pockets of cream and cheese, ensuring each bite is luscious and satisfying.
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Gooey and mild, mozzarella blankets the skillet in a stretchy, cheesy layer that oozes into every crevice.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): A finishing flourish, parsley brings a pop of color and a fresh, herby lift to the finished dish.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN WITH CHEESY TWISTED PASTA
Let’s walk through the kitchen dance that transforms these ingredients into a comforting masterpiece. Follow each step carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with golden chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly coated pasta.
1. Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook about 5–6 minutes per side, allowing a golden brown crust to form. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant—take care not to let it burn.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking frequently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Meanwhile, cook the twisted pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the cream sauce, using tongs or a spatula to gently toss and coat every spiral thoroughly.
8. Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, tucking them among the pasta and sauce so they can soak up extra flavor.
9. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese has fully melted.
10. Remove the lid, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately while it’s piping hot and irresistibly cheesy.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN WITH CHEESY TWISTED PASTA
Once your skillet is brimming with creamy chicken and pasta, think about presentation and accompaniments that elevate this cozy feast. From garnishes to side dishes, these serving ideas bring color, texture, and extra flavor layers to complement every decadent bite. Whether you’re inviting friends over or enjoying a quiet family meal, these suggestions will make your table look and taste like you hired a professional chef!
- Serve alongside a crisp garden salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. The bright acidity and crunchy veggies (like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and radish) provide a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast until tender for a caramelized, savory side.
- Offer garlic bread or herb focaccia to sop up any leftover sauce. A golden, buttery slice dusted with parsley and a hint of Parmesan is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Garnish each serving with a lemon wedge for a spritz of fresh citrus. Squeezing a bit of lemon brightens the cream sauce and adds a zesty lift that keeps each bite lively.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN WITH CHEESY TWISTED PASTA
Leftovers of this creamy pasta dish can be just as delightful as the first night—if stored properly! Keeping the sauce velvety and the chicken tender takes a little care, but with these tips in your back pocket, you’ll enjoy a delicious next-day meal without any sogginess or separation.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container: Transfer cooled leftovers to a sealed container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pasta before sealing to minimize air exposure.
- Freeze individual portions: For longer storage, portion the pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Gently reheat on the stove: Warm individual servings in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy consistency without drying out the sauce.
- Microwave with care: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through. This helps prevent hot spots and ensures even warming.
CONCLUSION
I hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through every step of creating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta. From the moment you sear those chicken breasts to the final sprinkle of parsley, each stage brings its own burst of flavor and satisfaction. This dish has become one of my go-to’s for family dinners and special occasions alike, thanks to its balance of rich creaminess, savory chicken, and that irresistible layer of mozzarella. Feel free to customize with your favorite pasta shapes or swap in half-and-half for a lighter twist—this recipe thrives on your personal touch. Don’t forget to jot down your tweaks and successes, print this article, and save it in your recipe binder for those nights when you need a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal in under an hour.
I’ve also included a handy FAQ below to tackle common questions about variations, reheating, and ingredient swaps. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your favorite side dishes, or ask any cooking questions that pop up as you prep. Your feedback and stories inspire me, and I’m always here to help troubleshoot or cheer you on. Happy cooking, and here’s to many cozy, cheesy dinners in your future!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Description
Savor tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, tossed with cheesy twisted pasta. This creamy dish promises flavor and comfort with every bite!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and then bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning to the skillet, stirring frequently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
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Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook the twisted pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Add the cooked pasta to the cream sauce, gently tossing to ensure the pasta is well coated.
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Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the pasta and sauce.
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Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and cover the skillet until the cheese has melted, about 2-3 minutes.
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Once the cheese has melted, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Note
- This dish can be made with other types of pasta if preferred, such as penne or farfalle.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in some lemon juice and herbs before cooking.
- To make the dish a bit lighter, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Great served alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
