Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 8 oz rotini pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5 from 22 reviews

If you’re searching for a dinner that blends cozy comfort, bold flavors, and a touch of elegance, you’ll adore Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta. This dish takes tender, golden-seared chicken and nestles it atop a bed of rotini enveloped in a silky garlic parmesan sauce. Every forkful delivers a mouthwatering mix of savory cheese, gentle garlic, and juicy chicken – all ready in just over half an hour! Perfect for joy-filled weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this is the one meal that’ll have everyone at your table reaching for seconds.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s astonishing what you can create with just a handful of kitchen staples. Each ingredient in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta offers a vital layer of flavor, silky texture, or visual appeal. Here’s how each one makes this dinner truly special:

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of this dish, providing juicy, lean protein that soaks up all that luscious sauce.
Rotini pasta: Those delightful twists aren’t just fun – they grab hold of creamy sauce in every crevice for extra cheesy goodness.
Fresh garlic cloves, minced: The aromatic base, gently sautéed to give mellow, earthy warmth to the entire sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The salty, nutty heart of the sauce; try freshly grated for laughably rich flavor.
Heavy cream: Brings luxurious body and silkiness, transforming the sauce into velvety dreams.
Butter: Adds richness and that signature glossy finish to both pasta and sauce.
Olive oil: Helps the chicken sear beautifully golden and locks in moisture.
Italian seasoning: That blend of basil, oregano, and thyme gives subtle herby notes in every bite.
Salt and pepper: The essentials! Proper seasoning brings out all the vibrant flavors in your skillet.
Fresh chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh pop of green that makes the final plate irresistibly inviting.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by trimming off any excess fat from your chicken breasts, then give them a gentle pat with paper towels to dry. This not only helps seasoning stick, but builds that irresistible golden crust later! Sprinkle both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and a good shake of Italian seasoning, giving the chicken a wonderful herbal backbone.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Swirl olive oil into your large skillet and bring it to medium-high heat. Nestle the chicken breasts into the hot oil, letting them sizzle for 5 to 6 minutes per side. You want a gorgeous, golden sear outside and juicy tenderness within. Once done, transfer them to a plate to rest; they’ll stay deliciously moist for slicing later.

Step 3: Boil the Rotini

While the chicken is cooking, fill a large saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Toss in the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions, stirring occasionally until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain, then stir in a small knob of butter so every piece is silky and never sticks together.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic for the Sauce

Using the same skillet (don’t clean it – every tasty brown bit left behind adds flavor!) melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant and pale gold – it releases its magical aroma quickly, so don’t wander off!

Step 5: Whisk Up the Parmesan Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer, whisking or stirring to blend in the garlic and pan drippings. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth, glossy, and irresistibly cheesy.

Step 6: Slice Chicken & Combine Pasta

Cut your rested chicken into thick strips or bite-sized pieces. Toss the drained, buttered rotini into the sauce, turning gently so every twist is coated evenly in creamy parmesan goodness. Add sliced chicken back in or arrange it on top – whatever looks prettiest to you!

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

Twirl generous mounds of the cheesy twisted pasta onto plates, top with the succulent chicken, and spoon a bit of extra sauce over everything. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Now take a moment to admire – isn’t this the dreamiest Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta you’ve ever seen?

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a classic finishing touch for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, adding color and a fresh lift of flavor. If you’re feeling extra, a dusting of extra grated Parmesan or a light crack of black pepper really brings the dish together. Lemon zest can also add a subtle zing for those who love a citrusy touch!

Side Dishes

This rich, creamy chicken pasta practically begs for something crisp and vibrant on the side. A sharply dressed green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette is perfect, or roasted asparagus and garlicky green beans are a hit. Want bread? Warm, crusty garlic bread is always right at home next to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual, family-style meal, serve everything from a big platter so everyone can help themselves. Want to impress? Twirl nests of cheesy twisted pasta onto plates using tongs, then fan sliced chicken artfully over the top. Garnish with microgreens, extra cheese, or even a drizzle of basil oil for a restaurant-worthy finish. No matter how you present it, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta always wows.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mingle and deepen overnight for an even more mouthwatering meal the next day.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind cream sauces can sometimes change texture after thawing. For best results, freeze cooled pasta and chicken in separate containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently. If the sauce separates a bit, just stir in a splash of cream while reheating to bring everything back to creamy perfection.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power, stirring frequently. Add a little extra cream or splash of milk to help loosen the sauce and keep it lusciously smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini is fantastic for catching all that creamy sauce, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work wonderfully in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta. Just use your favorite shape and cook to al dente!

What’s the secret to juicy chicken in this dish?

Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness and letting them rest after searing helps seal in juices before you slice. Also, don’t crowd the pan; proper searing keeps the chicken flavorful and moist for your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta.

Can I make this recipe lighter?

Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter result. While it won’t be quite as rich or thick, you’ll still get lovely creamy flavor in your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta. Using less butter or modest amounts of cheese also trims calories.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and load the pasta with your favorite vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach. You’ll still be able to enjoy all the cheesy, garlicky comfort of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta – just minus the meat.

Can I prepare it ahead for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken a few hours ahead, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, cook pasta fresh and gently reheat the sauce and chicken, combining just before plating for the freshest taste and texture in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one dinner that’ll become a new favorite in your rotation, it’s Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta. The irresistible mix of tender chicken, silky parmesan sauce, and twirly pasta sings with comforting flavor and just the right amount of flair. Go ahead – grab your skillet, pour a glass of something cozy, and savor every dreamy bite!