Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Chicken Breasts; Rotini Pasta; Garlic; Parmesan Cheese; Heavy Cream; Butter; Olive Oil; Italian Seasoning; Salt and Pepper; Fresh Parsley (Optional)

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If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the perfect meal to try! With golden-brown, tender chicken served on a bed of cheesy, garlicky pasta, every bite is indulgent and full of savory goodness. It’s the kind of recipe that combines the richness of parmesan and cream with the sharp punch of garlic for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together everything I adore in a meal—rich flavors, creamy textures, and a hearty serving of chicken. The rotini pasta twists perfectly to hold onto the luscious sauce, while the chicken breast is perfectly seared, juicy, and coated with savory garlic parmesan goodness. It’s a meal that feels special but is easy enough to make on any busy weeknight. Plus, the combination of parmesan cheese and garlic is irresistible, making every bite better than the last.

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts
Rotini Pasta
Garlic
Parmesan Cheese
Heavy Cream
Butter
Olive Oil
Italian Seasoning
Salt and Pepper
Fresh Parsley (Optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep and Season the Chicken
I start by trimming and patting dry the chicken breasts. I season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple step really helps to build the flavor foundation before I sear the chicken.
Sear the Chicken
I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I sear the chicken breasts for about 5-6 minutes per side until they’re golden-brown and cooked through. Afterward, I remove them from the pan and let them rest.
Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is resting, I boil the rotini pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. I drain the pasta and toss it with a little butter to prevent it from sticking together.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet I used to cook the chicken, I add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, I pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. I stir in the parmesan cheese and mix it until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine and Finish
I slice the rested chicken into strips and toss the cooked rotini in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce until it’s well-coated. I plate the pasta, top it with the sliced chicken, and drizzle on the extra sauce. Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley and add a little more parmesan if I’m feeling extra indulgent!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30-40 minutes to make from start to finish, including the cooking and prep time. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Variations

Chicken Thighs: I can easily swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs if I prefer a more flavorful cut of meat.
Vegetarian Option: If I want to make it vegetarian, I can leave out the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to add some texture and flavor.
Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, I can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while making the garlic sauce.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the creamy garlic parmesan chicken and pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the pasta and chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a little splash of milk or cream to help revive the creamy texture. I’ll heat it gently, stirring occasionally until warmed through. I avoid microwaving it for too long to keep the sauce from separating.

FAQs

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

I can marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking it. This adds extra flavor and makes the chicken even more tender.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the creamy sauce, I can use any pasta I like. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle would work well too.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

I prefer freshly grated parmesan because it melts better into the sauce and adds a richer flavor. However, pre-grated parmesan will still work if that’s what I have on hand.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I could prepare the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, I’ll make the sauce and combine everything. This helps save time if I’m planning a meal for later.

Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

Yes! I can use dairy-free cream and vegan parmesan cheese to make this recipe dairy-free. The flavor might be a bit different, but it’s still a delicious alternative.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a perfect balance of rich, savory, and comforting flavors that make it an instant favorite. Whether I’m preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy evening at home, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is the star of the show, bringing all the ingredients together in a way that feels indulgent yet simple.