When comfort food meets elegance, the result is this decadent Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Imagine juicy, herb-seasoned chicken breast slices smothered in a rich garlic-parmesan sauce, served with al dente rotini noodles coated in creamy cheese and flecked with fresh herbs. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul and brings everyone running to the dinner table.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The harmony between the tender chicken and creamy pasta is irresistible, and the aroma of garlic butter wafting from your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how to make this magic happen.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before we begin, it helps to have everything set up for a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool matters:

Large skillet: Essential for searing the chicken evenly and allowing the garlic-parmesan sauce to come together without burning.
Medium pot: For boiling the rotini pasta until perfectly al dente.
Cutting board and sharp knife: Prepping chicken and herbs requires precision and safety.

Whisk: To blend the sauce ingredients smoothly and avoid lumps.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key when it comes to flavor balance, especially for creamy sauces.
Tongs or spatula: For turning the chicken gently while searing to retain juices and avoid tearing.

Getting these tools ready in advance helps reduce cooking time and lets you focus on flavor and technique.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating deep, comforting flavors. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken breasts: Lean, tender, and quick to cook, they serve as the protein-rich star of the dish.

Rotini pasta: Its twisted shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying and creamy.
Butter: Adds richness and a silky base to the garlic parmesan sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings depth, warmth, and that signature aroma.

Parmesan cheese: The nutty, salty element that forms the backbone of the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream: Essential for creating a luscious, velvety texture in the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese: For extra cheesiness and melt-in-your-mouth creaminess.

Italian seasoning: A perfect herb blend to tie everything together with a savory twist.
Paprika & chili flakes (optional): Adds color and a slight kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Salt & black pepper: Simple yet crucial for enhancing all the other flavors.

Fresh parsley: Sprinkled on top for a touch of brightness and color.

How To Make the Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry, then season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat, then sear each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken, add more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta

Add the cooked rotini into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece with that creamy cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Slice and Serve the Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Plate the creamy pasta, top with sliced chicken, and drizzle any remaining sauce over everything. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is best served warm, straight from the skillet. The creamy sauce is at its silkiest when fresh, and the herbed chicken slices are most flavorful just after resting. Plate a generous scoop of pasta, nestle the sliced chicken on top, and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. A quick warm-up on the stovetop is best, though the microwave works in a pinch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, slice through the thickest part to check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or even shells will work. Just pick a shape that can hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and chicken ahead, but for the best texture, cook the pasta fresh and combine everything just before serving.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes—you can substitute the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives, and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan. Keep in mind the flavor will vary.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I freeze this recipe?

While possible, freezing creamy sauces can cause texture changes. If freezing, store the pasta and sauce separately and reheat gently with added cream or broth.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy and flavor-packed recipes from Life With Olivia:

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce — A close cousin to this recipe, ultra creamy and garlic-rich.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta — Comfort food with a touch of greens.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese — A fuss-free, cheesy favorite.

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini — Swap the chicken for steak with sweet garlic punch.
Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta — A bold twist on sweet, heat, and creamy.

For more daily dinner inspirations, don’t forget to check out my Pinterest board where I post recipes just like this one.

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Tried it? Let me know how it turned out in the comments! Did you go spicy or keep it mellow? Maybe you added spinach or mushrooms?

I always love seeing how you personalize these dishes. Share your twist or ask a question below—we’re all learning together in the kitchen.

Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—juicy, seared chicken slices coated in a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce and served with cheesy rotini pasta. It’s rich, satisfying, and ready to impress on any dinner table.