If you are craving a dish that wraps you in warmth, comfort, and a burst of flavor, then look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe. Picture tender, garlic-infused chicken nestled atop perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all swimming in an irresistible Parmesan cream sauce that is velvety smooth and rich. Each bite feels like a big, delicious hug that satisfies deeply, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or impressing guests without complicated fuss. The magic truly happens when simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create something so wonderfully indulgent yet effortlessly approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe, you only need a handful of ingredients, but each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that will have you coming back for seconds. From the golden seared chicken, the perfectly cooked twisted rotini, to the ooey-gooey, luscious Parmesan cream sauce, every component is essential.
- 2 large chicken breasts: Choose boneless for convenience or switch to thighs for even richer taste and juiciness.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: Twisted shape holds onto creamy sauce beautifully for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that luxuriously smooth texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth, and can be swapped with nutritional yeast if you prefer dairy-free.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its signature aromatic punch; garlic powder works in a pinch.
- 3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps develop a beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Balances butter for searing and brings a subtle fruity aroma.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of fresh color and mild herbal brightness.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Optional, but adds a gentle, pleasant heat that wakes up the palate.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Chicken
Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season them generously with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil. Add the minced garlic and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. This gives the garlic time to infuse its wonderful aroma and flavor into the meat, elevating it beyond simple pan-cooked chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat a combination of butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the fats are hot and shimmering, place the chicken into the pan. You’ll want to cook it undisturbed for 6 to 7 minutes per side until a beautiful golden crust forms and the chicken is cooked through. This step locks in juices and adds incredible texture.
Step 3: Cook the Rotini Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water—this magic ingredient will help loosen the sauce later and help it cling to your pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, melt the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer—this step reduces the cream slightly, intensifying its flavor.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Seasonings
Whisk grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering cream until smooth and melted. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes for a slight kick. The sauce should now be rich, creamy, and perfectly cheesy—ready to coat the pasta and chicken.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained rotini pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick, allowing it to coat the pasta luxuriously without drying out.
Step 7: Plate and Finish
Slice the sizzling garlic parmesan chicken and place it atop generous portions of the cheesy twisted pasta. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan over the top for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a subtle freshness and herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the dish beautifully. A little extra grated Parmesan on top adds a final touch of indulgence. For a touch of color and flavor contrast, you can also add a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper.
Side Dishes
This hearty entree pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, like a simple arugula or baby spinach salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans bring just the right amount of brightness and crunch. For those wanting bread, a warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, serve the pasta in a large beautiful serving dish with the sliced chicken artistically arranged on top and parsley scattered all over. For a more elegant presentation, plate individual servings with the chicken slices fanned out over twirled pasta nests. A small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil finished with a few flakes of red pepper will add a gourmet touch that dazzles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and pasta together as they marry beautifully when reheated, though the pasta may soak up a bit more sauce as it rests.
Freezing
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe freezes well, but the pasta might slightly soften in texture after thawing. For best results, freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as it warms. This method preserves the creamy texture and keeps the chicken tender. Microwaving works too, but be sure to stir halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While rotini is great because it holds sauce well, you can use penne, fusilli, or even farfalle if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with a full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The flavor will be different but still tasty and creamy.
Can I cook this recipe in advance for a dinner party?
Definitely. You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta a day ahead. Just reheat gently and add freshly cooked chicken on the day of serving for best texture.
How spicy is this dish if I add red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes provide a mild warmth that complements the richness without overwhelming the flavors. You can adjust the amount based on your tolerance for spice.
What can I substitute for fresh parsley?
Basil or chives work wonderfully as substitutions, adding unique herbal notes that pair beautifully with the creamy garlic Parmesan flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for good reason. It blends simple ingredients in a way that’s deeply satisfying and truly comforting, making it a perfect go-to for nights when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, garlicky bite!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A decadent and creamy garlic Parmesan chicken paired with cheesy twisted rotini pasta, this dish combines tender seared chicken breasts with a rich, savory sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Finished with fresh parsley and subtle red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, it’s a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce and Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and rub minced garlic onto the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Cheese and Season: Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust consistency by adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta into the sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly and warm through.
- Serve: Slice the seared chicken breasts and place them over the cheesy pasta. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese as desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer chicken flavor, boneless thighs can be used instead of breasts.
- To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Red pepper flakes add a slight heat; omit for a milder flavor.
- Reserve pasta water enhances sauce consistency and helps it cling to the pasta.
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Fresh herbs like basil can be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
