Name: Delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 8 oz rotini pasta; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

If you’re craving a dish that screams indulgent comfort, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is your new go-to. Tender golden-seared chicken nestled atop perfectly cooked rotini, all smothered in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s the kind of hearty meal that makes any night feel like a special occasion without needing hours in the kitchen.

The creamy sauce is loaded with flavor, thanks to roasted garlic, heavy cream, and a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese. Paired with the cheesy rotini, every bite is as satisfying as the next. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just want something cozy for yourself, this dish delivers on flavor and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Ultra Creamy Sauce: Rich, velvety, and bursting with garlic-Parmesan flavor.
Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your fridge and pantry.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy pasta and juicy chicken.
Weeknight-Friendly: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting everything prepped before you start cooking helps make this recipe smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Cast Iron Skillet or Nonstick Pan: Ideal for achieving a golden crust on the chicken.
Large Pot: For boiling the pasta evenly.
Tongs: Makes flipping chicken easier without losing the seasoning.
Whisk: Ensures the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce is smooth and lump-free.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy helps keep the balance of garlic and cheese just right.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: To gently fold the sauce into the pasta without damaging it.

Using the right tools guarantees each element turns out exactly how it should: juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and a silky sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, these form the juicy, golden centerpiece of the dish.
Rotini Pasta: The twisted shape helps hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Garlic Cloves: Minced or roasted, garlic is the aromatic base of the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for optimal flavor and melty texture.
Heavy Cream: Brings richness and a velvety finish to the sauce.
Butter: Adds depth and silkiness when melted into the sauce.
Olive Oil: For pan-searing the chicken to golden perfection.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
Parsley (Optional): Adds a pop of freshness and color.

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

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Once it simmers, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rotini to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, use a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Slice the seared chicken and place over the cheesy pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store This Dish

This creamy chicken pasta is best enjoyed hot, fresh out of the skillet. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complete the meal. For an added touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan or a drizzle of chili oil if you’re feeling adventurous.

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and boil the pasta ahead. Store them separately, then make the sauce fresh before serving to keep everything creamy and flavorful.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or even shells work well—just make sure it holds sauce nicely.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese for a similar richness.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for melting into the sauce, but pre-grated works in a pinch—just avoid the powdered shelf-stable kind.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.

Does this freeze well?

Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of refrigeration.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you’ll love these flavorful meals that deliver comfort in every bite:

One Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta for sun-dried tomato richness.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni for a beefy twist on creamy pasta.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce if you want a heartier garlic-parmesan version.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for something sweet, spicy, and cheesy.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a baked-style creamy pasta option.

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And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you tweak the sauce? Use another pasta? I love seeing your creative spins on this comforting favorite.

For even more cozy and delicious dinner ideas, follow me on Pinterest @Americanrecipesbyheart — I share new recipes from my kitchen daily.