You know, there are some dishes that just scream “comfort food,” and for my family, that’s definitely creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta. I remember the first time I made this – it was a weeknight, I was exhausted, and my husband had just called to say he was bringing a colleague home for dinner. Talk about pressure! I frantically rummaged through the fridge and pantry, and the idea for this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta popped into my head. I had some chicken breasts, pasta, cream, and of course, plenty of garlic and parmesan.

It was a total experiment, but honestly, it was one of those happy accidents. The aroma filled the house – that intoxicating blend of garlic, parmesan, and creamy goodness. I nervously watched my husband and his colleague take their first bites. Their eyes lit up! My husband practically inhaled his portion, and his colleague even asked for the recipe. That’s when I knew this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta was a keeper.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected it, adding my own little touches here and there. There was that one time I forgot to add the parmesan to the sauce… Let’s just say it was a very different dish! I learned my lesson – never underestimate the power of parmesan. Now, my kids practically demand it every other week. It’s become a staple in our busy family life because it is easy and filling.

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is not just a meal; it’s a memory maker. It’s the dish I bring to potlucks, the one I make for friends who need a little pick-me-up, and the one that always brings my family together around the dinner table. And the best part? It’s so easy to make! Even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up in under an hour.

It has saved me on countless occasions. One time, my daughter had a friend staying over for dinner unexpectedly and I had to quickly figure out what to make. This dish was a surefire hit! I think that is why I love it so much. It is simple, and it works every time!

Trust me, once you try this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta, it’ll become a family favorite in your house too. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Okay, girlfriend, let’s talk ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need for this crowd-pleasing creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta:

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1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: I always buy organic chicken breasts when I can, I think it makes a difference in the taste. You can use thighs if you prefer dark meat, but I find the breasts work best in this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta. See USDA for more info: Chicken, broilers or fryers, meat and skin, raw.
1 lb twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli): Any pasta shape will work, but I love the way the sauce clings to the twisted pasta. Plus, the kids think it’s fun! You can even try other shapes like penne or rigatoni for a different texture.
4 tablespoons butter: I use unsalted butter so I can control the amount of salt in the dish. Using high-quality butter can also enhance the overall flavor.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skimp on the garlic! It’s the star of the show in this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta. I like to buy the pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time, especially on busy weeknights. For an even more intense garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic beforehand.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce so rich and decadent. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but trust me, the heavy cream is worth it. For a vegan option, try using cashew cream, but be mindful of the altered taste and consistency.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is always best! It melts beautifully into the sauce and adds that signature parmesan flavor. I always have a block of Parmesan in my fridge! According to the FDA there are several types of cheese. See Cheese Facts.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that extra cheesy goodness on top! You can use any cheese that melts well, like provolone or Monterey Jack. A blend of cheeses can also add complexity to the flavor profile.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of color and fresh flavor. Dried parsley works too, but fresh is always better. Other herbs like basil or oregano can also be used to complement the flavors.
1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste. Different types of salt, like sea salt or Himalayan pink salt, can also be used to add subtle flavor variations.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best! The aroma and taste are much more vibrant compared to pre-ground pepper.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick! If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount or omit them altogether.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Ingredients

Here’s a creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta trick I learned from my mom: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor. It really elevates the dish! Also, don’t forget to save some of the pasta water! It helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
For cost-saving tips, I like to buy chicken breasts in bulk when they’re on sale and freeze them. I always keep a bag of frozen garlic on hand, which saves on spoilage. Consider growing your own herbs like parsley for fresh and cost-effective additions.
Store leftover parmesan cheese in the fridge, tightly wrapped, and it will last for weeks. You can also freeze parmesan cheese, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.

How to Make – Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s get cooking! I’m going to walk you through each step like we’re making this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta together.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. Using a glass or ceramic baking dish can also affect the baking time, so keep an eye on it.
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside. Don’t worry if your creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta takes a little longer to cook. Adding salt to the pasta water not only seasons the pasta but also helps it cook evenly.
Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. I learned the hard way with creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta that it’s important to not overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook it in batches if necessary to ensure it browns evenly. Patting the chicken dry before cooking can also help it brown better.
Make the sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! I sometimes get distracted and the garlic burns, which is why I cook it over medium heat. Keep stirring the garlic and watch it carefully to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter.
Add the cream and parmesan: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). I like to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Stirring the sauce constantly while the Parmesan melts can help prevent it from clumping.
Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Now your creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is starting to come together! Make sure the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish ensures that it cooks uniformly.
Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top. The amount of mozzarella can be adjusted to your preference.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. In my kitchen, creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta usually takes about 18 minutes to bake. Keep an eye on the dish while it’s baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. While the creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is baking, I usually throw together a quick salad or steam some vegetables. Letting the dish cool slightly before serving allows the flavors to meld together and prevents burning your mouth.

Your creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta should smell like garlic, parmesan, and pure comfort! I always feel so proud when I pull this dish out of the oven.

Serving

Okay, the creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is ready! Now, let’s talk serving. The kids love our creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta when I serve it with a simple green salad and some garlic bread. It’s the perfect balanced meal!

Perfect Side Dishes

Garlic bread: Because you can never have too much garlic, right?
Green salad with a light vinaigrette: To add some freshness and crunch.
Steamed broccoli or green beans: For a healthy and colorful side.

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or even a casual get-together with friends. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Presentation and Storage Tips

For presentation, I like to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a pop of color and a hint of spice.
If you have extra creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta, it’s even better the next day! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it in the microwave or oven. I sometimes add a little extra cream when reheating to keep it moist. Adding a splash of milk or chicken broth can also help keep it from drying out when reheating.
I have tried several seasonal variations of creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta. In the summer, I like to add some grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. In the fall, I sometimes add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin.

My friends always ask for this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta recipe! I’m always happy to share it because I know it’s a dish that everyone will love. You can also top the dish with some breadcrumbs for added texture.

FAQs

Okay, let’s tackle some frequently asked questions about this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta recipe. These are the questions I get asked all the time, and I’m happy to share my experiences with you!

Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but I prefer twisted pasta like rotini or fusilli because the sauce clings to it so well. Penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti would be delicious too. You know what I do when my creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta ingredients are running low? I substitute with whatever I have.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. If you use milk, I recommend adding a tablespoon of butter to the sauce to help thicken it up. You can also add a little cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Make sure to cover the dish tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze this dish? I don’t recommend freezing the assembled dish, as the pasta can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Then, when you’re ready to make the dish, cook the pasta and combine everything. Freezing the sauce in individual portions can also be convenient for quick meals.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out? The key is to not overcook the chicken. Cook it until it’s just cooked through, and then let it rest for a few minutes before adding it to the sauce. Marinating the chicken before cooking can also help keep it moist.
What if my sauce is too thick? Add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. You can also add a splash of milk or cream. Adding a little chicken broth can also help thin the sauce and add flavor.
What if my sauce is too thin? Simmer the sauce for a few minutes longer to allow it to thicken. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken it. Make sure to whisk the slurry into the sauce and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! I love adding broccoli, peas, spinach, or mushrooms. Just add them to the skillet with the garlic and cook until tender. My family loves when I add mushrooms to the sauce. Roasting the vegetables before adding them to the dish can also enhance their flavor.
My family doesn’t like garlic. What can I do? I am so sorry, but this recipe is not for you! Just kidding. You can reduce the amount of garlic, but honestly, the garlic is what makes this dish so delicious. You can also try using roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
Is there any substitute for parmesan cheese? Asiago cheese is a great substitute if you are missing parmesan cheese. Other hard cheeses like pecorino romano or grana padano can also be used.

My Final Thoughts

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta recipe is more than just a dish to me; it’s a symbol of family, comfort, and happy memories. It’s the recipe I turn to when I need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s the one that always brings a smile to my loved ones’ faces. I hope it will do the same for you. I’m so proud to be sharing this recipe with you. The creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta has a special place in my heart and I think that you will soon find it has a special place in yours as well!

Enjoying Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta: Final Thoughts

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Pro Tips

Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is the key! Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: It melts beautifully and adds so much flavor.
Don’t burn the garlic: Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the sauce.

Variations

Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and spinach.
Pesto: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto sauce for a burst of fresh flavor. My kids love the pesto version!

I hope you make this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta your own! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Cooking should be fun and creative. And if you mess up, don’t worry! We’ve all been there. Just keep practicing and you’ll get better with each attempt.

I truly hope you enjoy this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta as much as my family does. Happy cooking!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Print Recipe

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken recipe is incredibly easy to make and tastes absolutely divine! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Author: Zoubida
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Return chicken breasts to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly. Serve immediately.

Notes

Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables. For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.