Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this dish stand out is the combination of creamy garlic parmesan sauce and the tender, juicy chicken. I love how the pasta twists perfectly into the rich sauce, creating a bite that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, the dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a great option when I’m short on time but still craving something indulgent. The flavors are rich without being overwhelming, and the chicken stays moist while soaking up all the delicious sauce. If I’m a fan of creamy pasta dishes, this one is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

8 oz rotini pasta

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Trim and pat dry the chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let the chicken rest.

Boil the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and toss with a little butter to keep the pasta from sticking.

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Add heavy cream to the skillet and simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until melted and smooth.

Slice the chicken into strips. Toss the pasta in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce until fully coated.

Plate the pasta, top with the sliced chicken, drizzle with any extra sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 2-3 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: I sometimes toss in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.

Chicken Thighs: If I want to switch it up, I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly different texture and more moisture.

Spicy Kick: For a little heat, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of milk or cream to the sauce and heating it gently over low heat to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

How can I make this dish lower in calories?

I can use a lighter cream or a combination of milk and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Additionally, using less cheese or substituting with a lower-fat version can help reduce the calorie count.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, I can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Just ensure the other ingredients, like the Parmesan cheese and cream, are also gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! If I’m in a rush, I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and simply add it to the sauce at the end to warm through. This will save time while still delivering a tasty dish.

Can I freeze this recipe?

While this dish is best fresh, I can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, the texture of the sauce may change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread is a perfect complement to this creamy pasta. If I’m looking for something lighter, a side of steamed vegetables works great too.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a perfect comfort food dish for busy nights when I crave something rich, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, easy to make, and guarantees a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether I’m feeding a family or just treating myself, this dish never disappoints!

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