Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the kind of weeknight comfort food that feels like a reward after a long day. Perfectly seared chicken breasts are smothered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, then served over a bed of cheesy, buttery rotini that clings to every bit of flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for a cozy dinner date at home, this dish has everything: crispy chicken, luscious sauce, and tender pasta that makes each bite better than the last. It’s hearty, indulgent, and still surprisingly easy to pull together.


What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are your best bet. They cook evenly, slice beautifully, and absorb the garlic parmesan sauce without overpowering it. You could also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier bite, but be mindful to adjust cooking times as needed.


Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Chicken Breasts
Essential for the protein base of the dish. Thinly sliced or pounded for even cooking.

Rotini Pasta
Twisted shapes are ideal for holding onto the rich, creamy sauce in every spiral.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic adds the signature punch to both the chicken seasoning and the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese
Grated or shredded parmesan gives the dish its salty, nutty depth. Add some on top for texture!

Heavy Cream
Creates the smooth, velvety base of the garlic sauce.

Butter
Used to sauté garlic and help emulsify the sauce for extra richness.

Olive Oil
Helps to sear the chicken for a golden-brown crust without drying it out.

Italian Seasoning
Adds balance and earthiness to the chicken, complementing the parmesan and garlic.

Salt and Pepper
To taste, but don’t skip this—it pulls everything together!

Fresh Parsley (Optional)
A final sprinkle adds color and a touch of herbaceous freshness.


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

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by trimming and patting dry the chicken breasts. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This builds the base flavor before searing.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let them rest.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil your rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with a bit of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Toss the cooked rotini in the parmesan sauce until well-coated. Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and more parmesan if desired.


How to Serve and Store This Creamy Garlic Chicken

Serve this dish hot off the skillet while the sauce is still creamy and luscious. Pair it with a crisp green salad and maybe a slice of warm garlic bread for a restaurant-style dinner.

To store leftovers, let everything cool down first. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but make sure it’s not overly seasoned or dry. You’ll miss the crispy sear, but it works for a quicker version.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may be less rich. Add a bit of flour to thicken if needed.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use your favorite gluten-free rotini and check that your parmesan is certified gluten-free.

Is this freezer-friendly?

The sauce may separate when thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, freeze the chicken and pasta separately, then reheat and add sauce later.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach make great add-ons without overwhelming the flavors.


Want More Dinner Ideas?

If this cheesy pasta dish hit the spot, you’ll love diving into these comforting meals too:


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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding mushrooms or spinach? Did you go extra on the cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.


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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings

Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the ultimate comfort food: juicy seared chicken, smothered in rich garlic parmesan sauce, served on a bed of buttery rotini. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make on a weeknight.


Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

8 oz rotini pasta

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)


Instructions

  1. Trim and pat dry the chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest.
  3. Boil rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and toss with a little butter.
  4. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
  5. Add heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in parmesan until melted and smooth.
  6. Slice the chicken into strips. Toss the pasta in the sauce until fully coated.
  7. Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with parsley.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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