Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal that brings together juicy, golden-seared chicken breasts with a velvety, cheesy pasta sauce clinging to spiraled rotini. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish layers savory flavor with creamy indulgence, offering bite after bite of pure satisfaction.

The secret is in the garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce that coats the pasta and soaks into the tender chicken. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s easier to make than you might expect. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, this is the ideal recipe for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Twisted pasta like rotini or fusilli works beautifully here because the spirals hold onto the creamy garlic sauce, ensuring each forkful is packed with flavor. Penne and farfalle are good alternatives if you don’t have rotini on hand.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give a hearty protein base and sear beautifully.
• Rotini Pasta: Twisted rotini captures the creamy sauce in its spirals.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings deep, aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty richness.
• Heavy Cream: The base for the creamy sauce, lending luscious texture.
• Butter: Used to cook the garlic and add a rich, silky depth.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
• Parsley (optional): Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and brightness.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is searing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well, then gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan until smooth. If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Serve this dish hot, right off the stove, for maximum creaminess and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables and a slice of crusty bread to mop up the extra sauce.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life without drying out the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low to medium heat when adding the cream and cheese, and avoid boiling the sauce to keep it smooth and creamy.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie or grilled chicken can be sliced and added at the end, making this recipe even quicker to prepare.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Adding a bit of cream cheese can help mimic the thickness.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Parmesan and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, keep the chicken and pasta in separate containers and add a bit of cream when reheating to restore texture.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy garlic chicken dish, you’ll definitely enjoy these comforting dinner favorites:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta for a quick and luxurious seafood fix.
• Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes packed with bold Mediterranean flavors.
• Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta when you’re in the mood for cheesy baked pasta.
• Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs for a simple, zesty alternative.
• Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Tortellini if you’re craving a meatless creamy pasta night.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Swap in mushrooms or add a veggie on the side?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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