Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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Golden seared chicken served alongside tender rotini pasta blanketed in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce—this dish is comfort food at its finest. The crispy, herbed crust of the chicken adds the perfect contrast to the velvety pasta, making every bite irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet approachable, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual dinner parties.

Whether you’re craving something cozy or trying to impress your guests with minimal effort, this recipe has it all. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the twists of the pasta, while the chicken brings a hearty, savory depth. The addition of parsley adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that balances the richness perfectly.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

For this dish, rotini (or any twisted pasta like fusilli) is perfect because the grooves catch and hold onto the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. You could also opt for penne or cavatappi for a similar effect. Avoid smoother pasta types like spaghetti, which don’t cling to the sauce as well.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

• Chicken breasts: Sliced and pan-seared for a juicy, flavorful protein.
• Olive oil & butter: Used to cook the chicken and build the base of the sauce.
• Garlic: Essential for that deep, aromatic flavor.
• Heavy cream: The foundation of the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, salty richness.
• Rotini pasta: Ideal shape for holding onto the sauce.
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh finish.
• Salt & pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance every element.
• Italian seasoning: Optional, but gives the chicken a lovely herby crust.

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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for the sauce if needed.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta into the cream sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in freshly chopped parsley.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Slice the rested chicken and serve over a bed of creamy twisted pasta. Garnish with extra parmesan and parsley if desired.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

This dish is best served fresh while the sauce is at its creamiest and the chicken retains its juicy texture. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving the chicken too long to prevent it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the parmesan slightly. You can also use grilled chicken breast to cut down on fat.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken leftovers work well—just slice and warm them through in the sauce before serving.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not ideal as the creamy sauce can separate when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

What other cheeses can I use?

Mozzarella or Asiago can be blended in with the parmesan for a different flavor twist. Cream cheese can also add extra richness.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a hearty, meat-free version.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi served over linguine.
• One-Pot Chicken Alfredo for a quick weeknight solution.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti layered with ricotta and marinara.
• Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Skillet for a bright, hearty dish.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or extra cheese? Did you try it with a different pasta shape?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, one creamy dish at a time.

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