What ingredients are needed for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta?

You’ll need chicken breasts, twisted pasta, garlic, Parmesan, cream, mozzarella, cream cheese, butter, and Italian seasoning for a rich, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish.

How do you make the garlic Parmesan sauce creamy and rich?

Simmer heavy cream with butter, garlic, and cream cheese, then whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth. Avoid boiling to maintain the sauce’s velvety texture and rich flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked or leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded or chopped cooked chicken works perfectly. Just warm it in the garlic Parmesan sauce before combining it with the pasta to absorb maximum flavor.

What is the best type of pasta to use with creamy chicken dishes?

Twisted pasta like rotini or fusilli is ideal because the spirals hold creamy sauces well, making every bite cheesy, garlicky, and full of flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time or meal prep it?

Yes! Prepare and store in an airtight container. Reheat with a splash of cream or milk to keep it creamy. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely. The mild garlic and cheesy flavors are kid-approved. You can adjust spice levels and use small pasta shapes to make it more fun and easier for little ones to enjoy.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 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)

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