Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this dish a standout is its combination of creamy flavors, tender chicken, and the delightful texture of twisted pasta. The garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and velvety, with a perfect balance of tangy cheese and a touch of heat from the optional red pepper flakes. The mozzarella adds extra cheesiness, while the Parmesan gives it that signature salty depth. It’s a complete, hearty meal that’s incredibly satisfying, easy to prepare, and great for meal prep or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips

• 12 oz twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup cream cheese (for extra creaminess)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Cook the Twisted Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the twisted pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

2. Cook the Chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.

4. Add the Cheeses:
   Add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and mozzarella to the skillet. Stir until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust the consistency with a little reserved pasta water, if needed.

5. Combine and Simmer:
   Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a rich and cheesy comfort meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Use Different Pasta: Feel free to swap out the twisted pasta for penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer.

• Chicken Substitution: For a different protein, try shrimp, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like tofu.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti would work well.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can use plant-based cream, dairy-free cheeses, and a dairy-free butter substitute.

3. Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce it. Alternatively, you can add more cream cheese or Parmesan to help thicken the sauce.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish, but the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. For the best texture, it’s recommended to freeze just the chicken and sauce separately, and then reheat with freshly cooked pasta.

6. How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick, or mix in some freshly chopped basil or oregano for extra herbiness.

7. Can I use store-bought pasta sauce instead of making the garlic Parmesan sauce?

While it’s possible, the homemade garlic Parmesan sauce gives a fresher, more customized flavor. However, using store-bought sauce is a time-saving option if you’re in a hurry.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meat should be white and no longer pink in the center.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then assemble and reheat when ready to serve.

10. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the dish may not be as rich and creamy as with regular cream cheese.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a perfect dish for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and satisfy your cravings with this indulgent meal!

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