Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s nothing quite like the soul-soothing aroma of garlic sizzling in butter to melt away the stress of a long day. Enter my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also offers a satisfying blend of creamy flavors and tender textures that promises to wrap you in a warm culinary embrace. Plus, it’s the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner, allowing you to trade in the fast food for something truly delectable without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to indulge in this delicious escape? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity at Its Best: The straightforward steps make it easy for anyone to bring restaurant-quality flavors home. Creamy, Dreamy Sauce: The heavenly blend of garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan enchants every bite and pairs wonderfully with the twisted pasta. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, this dish has the charm to impress guests while collectively feeding everyone’s cravings. Customizable: Want to sneak in some veggies? Add in steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach without a hitch! Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, this is perfect for those busy nights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast. Treat yourself to some comfort food with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, and swap out takeout for a meal made with love! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Essential protein base of the dish; can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite. • Salt and Pepper – Season generously to enhance the overall flavor and keep it delightful. • Italian Seasoning – Adds a touch of warmth and earthiness to balance the garlic and creamy elements. For the Pasta • Rotini Pasta – Twisted shapes are perfect for clinging to the rich creamy sauce; opt for gluten-free if preferred. • Butter – Used to sauté the garlic and enrich the sauce, bringing a beautiful richness to the dish. For the Sauce • Garlic – Fresh minced garlic delivers a robust punch that makes this creamy garlic parmesan chicken unforgettable. • Heavy Cream – Creates a velvety smooth sauce; don’t skimp on this for that luxurious finish. • Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty, nutty depth that contributes to the overall flavor profile. For Garnish • Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh herbaceous hint that brightens the dish. • Extra Parmesan – A sprinkle on top for those cheese lovers will take your creamy garlic parmesan chicken up a notch! With these simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting an unforgettable Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta that’ll have everyone at your table craving more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Trim any excess fat from the boneless skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This seasoning sets the stage for your flavorful Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Step 2: Sear the Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until they reach a golden-brown crust and are cooked through, registering 165°F. Once done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a plate. Step 3: Cook the Pasta While the chicken is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and toss it with a tablespoon of butter, allowing the heat to melt the butter and coat the pasta. Step 4: Sauté the Garlic In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned. This will create the aromatic base for your creamy garlic sauce. Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce Pour in the heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Gradually stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor. Step 6: Combine the Ingredients Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. Add the cooked rotini directly into the creamy garlic parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly. This step ensures each twist of pasta is enveloped in that luscious sauce, making every bite a delight. Step 7: Plate and Garnish To serve your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, place a generous portion of the saucy pasta on each plate. Top with slices of the chicken and drizzle additional sauce over the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese as desired. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe and make it your own with these fun twists! Chicken Thighs: Swap boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs to yield juicier, more flavorful results. They add a lovely richness that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Vegetable Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach for an added nutrition kick. Their vibrant colors will make your dish not only tastier but also more visually appealing. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free rotini to cater to gluten-sensitive diners while keeping all the creamy goodness intact. This allows everyone to indulge without worry. Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a delightful heat. This variation transforms the dish into a zesty masterpiece that will excite your taste buds! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme in place of parsley. Fresh herbs elevate the flavors and amplify the dish’s aroma. Mushroom Delight: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms in the creamy sauce for an earthy twist. Mushrooms bring a lovely umami flavor and enhance the overall dish. Cheese Variants: Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda instead of parmesan for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese adds its character, creating a delightful surprise in every bite. Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest over the top before serving brightens the dish. This simple addition adds a refreshing element that cuts through the richness beautifully. With these ideas, you can bring an entirely new dimension to your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering, these variations ensure that every plate tells a delicious story! What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Elevate your weeknight dinner experience by creating the perfect spread to accompany this delightful creamy dish. Crisp Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the pasta perfectly. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread offers a crispy counterpart to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce, enhancing the meal’s comfort. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted bell peppers and zucchini provide a colorful, nutritious touch that complements the creamy sauce while adding delightful texture. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant veggie adds a pop of green and a satisfying crunch, making it an excellent choice to round out your plate. Wine Pairing – Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay’s crisp acidity and buttery notes aligns beautifully with the creaminess of the chicken and pasta. Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note; this light dessert cleanses the palate after the rich flavors, leaving a delightful aftertaste. By offering these delicious sides, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that has everyone eagerly awaiting your next home-cooked masterpiece! Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Even Cooking: Ensure chicken is properly pounded or thinly sliced to promote even cooking and prevent dryness. Season Generously: Don’t skip on salt and pepper; they enhance the flavors in your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken beautifully. Save Some Sauce: When serving, reserve a bit of the sauce to drizzle on leftovers to keep your pasta creamy when reheating. Lighten It Up: Consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and chicken broth for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Add Veggies: If you’d like to sneak in some greens, steamed broccoli or spinach can be easily incorporated without altering the dish’s essence. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and juiciness. Additionally, cook the pasta and prepare the sauce (minus the cheese) ahead of time as well; both can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and pasta on the stovetop, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. This method allows you to savor homemade comfort food on busy nights, saving time without sacrificing quality! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Fridge: Cool leftovers completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This method preserves the creamy texture of your dish. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled to prevent ice crystals forming. Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat on low heat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Thawing: If frozen, defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Avoid microwave thawing to prevent uneven heating. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are firm to the touch and have a pink, moist appearance. Avoid any that show dark spots or are slimy. Choose fresh over frozen if possible for the best flavor and texture. What is the best way to store leftovers? I recommend letting your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to help restore that luxurious creaminess. Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken? Yes, very! To freeze, let your dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and when reheating, use low heat with a bit of cream or milk to keep the sauce silky. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? No worries! If your creamy sauce turns out too thick, simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk while stirring over low heat. Continue to cook until you achieve your desired consistency. The goal is a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta! Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Just swap out regular rotini with gluten-free pasta, and you’ll still be able to enjoy this comforting dish without worry. Plus, make sure to double-check any seasoning blends or sauces for hidden gluten ingredients. Is this dish safe for my pets? While some ingredients like cooked chicken may be safe for pets, I recommend avoiding sharing this dish with them. Garlic and heavy cream can upset their stomachs. Stick to their usual pet foods for a happy and safe meal! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Delight Indulge in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, a comforting dish that’s quick and satisfying. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite.to taste Saltto taste Pepper1 tablespoon Italian SeasoningFor the Pasta8 ounces Rotini Pasta Opt for gluten-free if preferred.1 tablespoon Butter Used to toss the cooked pasta.For the Sauce4 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic.1 cup Heavy Cream Don't skimp for a luxurious finish.1 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated.For Garnishto taste Fresh Parsley Optional, for color.to taste Extra Parmesan Sprinkle on top for added flavor. Equipment Large SkilletLarge PotMeasuring CupsCutting BoardKnifePasta Strainer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsTrim excess fat from chicken breasts, pat dry, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.Cook rotini pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.Pour heavy cream into skillet and simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in parmesan cheese until melted.Slice the seared chicken and combine cooked rotini with the creamy sauce.Serve pasta topped with chicken, additional sauce, and garnish with parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg NotesConsider substituting heavy cream for a lighter option with half-and-half or a milk-chicken broth mixture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!