Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

At Eminent Recipes, Savannah brings her lifelong passion for cooking into every dish, blending flavor, creativity, and comfort. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta reflects that mission—easy to make, full of heart, and perfect for busy nights or special gatherings. Inspired by her childhood kitchen and love for bold, creamy meals, this recipe delivers both simplicity and indulgence in one unforgettable bite. Let’s cook something truly delicious today.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the kind of comfort food that hits all the right notes. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and infused with bold garlic flavor—everything you want in a soul-satisfying dish. The tender chicken adds a hearty dose of protein, while the twisted pasta perfectly traps every bit of the luscious sauce. Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or even a cozy, elegant meal with guests.

Ingredients for This Recipe

To make the ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, you’ll need a blend of simple, flavorful, and creamy ingredients. The core of this cheesy garlic pasta recipe centers around tender chicken, bold garlic, rich cheeses, and perfectly cooked twisted pasta that holds the creamy Parmesan sauce like a dream.

Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 12 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli recommended for sauce cling)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter (divided use)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins for Flavor Variety

• 1 cup spinach (stir in at the end to wilt)
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (for depth)
• 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (earthy twist)

Pantry Substitutions

• Swap heavy cream with crème fraîche for a tangy note
• Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time
• Substitute Parmesan with Romano for a sharper bite

This ingredient list builds a creamy, garlicky, and ultra-cheesy chicken pasta dinner that’s weeknight-easy yet impressively flavorful.

How to Make This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Making this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is easier than you think—and the result is a restaurant-worthy meal loaded with bold flavors and rich texture. Follow these simple steps to bring this cheesy creamy garlic pasta to life in under 45 minutes.

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning your sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a dash of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through—about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Let it simmer gently until smooth and thick. This creamy garlic chicken Parmesan pasta sauce is the heart of the dish—rich, silky, and layered with cheesy depth.

Step 3: Boil and Add Twisted Pasta

Meanwhile, boil your rotini or fusilli until al dente. Twisted pasta holds onto the creamy cheesy garlic chicken pasta sauce beautifully. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Everything and Bake (Optional)

Add the chicken and pasta to the sauce. Mix well. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle with mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes. This step turns your garlic Parmesan chicken and pasta into a bubbly, golden comfort meal.

Learn more about comfort-style garlic chicken dishes in our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Expert Cooking Tips for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Mastering this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta isn’t just about following steps—it’s about understanding the small details that elevate it from good to unforgettable. These expert tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and bring out the full potential of every creamy, cheesy, garlicky bite.

How to Avoid Curdling in Cream Sauces

Cream-based sauces can split or curdle if not handled properly. To maintain that luscious, smooth texture in your creamy garlic chicken Parmesan pasta:

• Never boil the sauce—always simmer gently on medium-low heat.
• Add Parmesan and cream cheese gradually, whisking constantly to help them melt evenly.
• If the sauce starts separating, remove from heat immediately and whisk in a spoonful of reserved pasta water to help emulsify.

These tips will keep your garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe creamy and velvety—never gritty or oily.

Pasta Tips: When to Salt and How to Test for Doneness

For pasta that complements the richness of the sauce, these basics matter:

• Salt your pasta water like the sea. It’s your only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Cook twisted pasta like rotini until just al dente—firm with a slight bite—so it doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.
• Always taste-test 1–2 minutes before the package directions say it’s done. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.

Well-cooked pasta makes your creamy cheesy garlic chicken pasta feel gourmet instead of gluey.

Flavor Layering: Sauté Order and Seasoning Timing

Big flavor comes from layering ingredients the right way in your garlic Parmesan chicken and pasta skillet:

• Sauté garlic after cooking the chicken to absorb those flavorful chicken drippings.
• Add seasonings in layers: season chicken before cooking, season the sauce after the cheeses melt, and taste again after combining.
• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cracked pepper just before serving adds brightness and visual contrast to this otherwise creamy dish.

This method of building flavor ensures your pasta with cream cheese and chicken isn’t just rich—it’s deeply satisfying.

Check out this flavorful twist in our Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta

Proper Storage and Reheating

To keep your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta tasting fresh, proper storage is key. Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to airtight glass or BPA-free plastic containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Avoid overheating to prevent the cream sauce from breaking or drying out.

Don’t miss our veggie-loaded creamy pasta recipe: Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Variations and Substitutions

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is easy to customize. For a gluten-free version, swap the pasta for gluten-free rotini. Prefer a low-carb option? Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. To make it vegetarian, skip the chicken and add roasted mushrooms or broccoli; for a vegan twist, use plant-based cream, vegan cheese, and tofu. Want to change up the protein? Try tender shrimp, spicy Italian sausage, or pan-fried tofu for a fresh spin. These substitutions keep the dish flexible while delivering all the creamy, cheesy, garlicky satisfaction you crave.

Looking for inspiration? Try our bold southern take on garlic pasta: Crockpot BWW Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

What Goes with This Recipe

Pairing sides and drinks with this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta makes it a complete, satisfying meal. Serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a nutrient boost. A crisp Caesar or arugula salad adds freshness, while warm garlic bread or crusty rolls help soak up the rich sauce. For drinks, choose a light Chardonnay or a chilled sparkling water with lemon. When plating, use shallow bowls to showcase the cheesy sauce and garnish with chopped parsley or shaved Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

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This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta brings comfort, flavor, and convenience together in one irresistible dish. With its creamy garlic sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese coating every pasta twist, it’s no wonder this recipe earns a regular spot in any dinner rotation. Simply cook the chicken, simmer the garlic Parmesan sauce, boil the pasta, and combine—all in under an hour. Plus, it’s easily customizable for various diets and preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting guests, this pasta delivers satisfying results every time. It’s a weeknight winner and a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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• Author: Savannah
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

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Description

Golden seared chicken is smothered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce and tossed with cheesy twisted pasta (like rotini or gemelli). A crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but indulgent enough for weekends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

 

🛒 Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter

For the Sauce & Pasta:

3–4 garlic cloves, minced

1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra cheesiness)

½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed to loosen sauce)

10 oz twisted pasta (e.g., rotini, gemelli, fusilli)

2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil (optional garnish)

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Instructions

📝 Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.

2. Season and Sear the Chicken:

Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter.

Sear chicken until golden and fully cooked (5–7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add a touch of oil if dry.

Sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream and stir gently. Bring to a low simmer.

Stir in Parmesan (and mozzarella if using), whisking until melted and smooth.

Thin sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water, if needed.

4. Combine & Serve:

Return chicken to the pan. Simmer 1–2 minutes to coat in sauce.

Add cooked pasta and toss everything until evenly coated.

Garnish with parsley or basil and more Parmesan if desired.

Serve immediately with a side salad or garlic bread.

Notes

• Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
• Make it spicy: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes with the garlic.
• Low-carb option: Serve the sauce and chicken over zucchini noodles or steamed cauliflower.
• Extra cheesy: Bake the final dish with shredded mozzarella on top until bubbly!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course, Pasta
• Method: Sautéed, Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American