Some meals just stick with you. I remember the first time I made creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta—it was one of those rushed weeknights when I needed something cozy but quick. My kitchen smelled like heaven, and by the time that golden sauce coated the pasta, I knew I had a keeper. My family didn’t even make it to the table. They hovered around the stove with forks in hand.
This dish has all the good stuff: juicy chicken, rich garlic cream sauce, melted parmesan, and pasta twisted just enough to catch every bit of cheesy goodness. In under 30 minutes, you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to make it, how to tweak it to fit your pantry, and ways to keep it flavorful and satisfying every time. Let’s break down the recipe, step-by-step, starting with the heart of it all: the chicken and that ultra-creamy sauce.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta: The Comfort Dish Everyone Loves
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a rich and savory one-skillet dish made with tender seared chicken, garlic cream sauce, and perfectly coated pasta for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or about 1¼ lb chicken thighs)
12 oz twisted pasta (rotini, fusilli, or cavatappi)
3 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1¼ cups heavy cream
1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (165°F). Remove and let rest.
3. Reduce heat to medium, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth, about 2 minutes more. Season sauce with salt and pepper.
6. Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water until al dente (8–10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
7. Slice chicken and return to skillet. Add pasta to sauce and toss to coat, using pasta water to loosen if needed.
8. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
You can use any short twisted pasta such as rotini or cavatappi.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
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Table of Contents
Building the Base of Creamy Flavor
Searing the Chicken Just Right
The chicken in this creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta isn’t just tossed in—it’s the star. You’ll want boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into thin strips. Season them with salt, cracked pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers and then sear each piece until golden brown. Don’t rush it. Getting that golden crust gives the chicken flavor that holds up against the richness of the sauce.
Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate. You’ll return it to the pan later, but letting it rest briefly keeps it juicy and helps avoid overcooking.
The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Now comes the dreamy part: the garlic parmesan sauce. Start by sautéing fresh minced garlic in the same pan you cooked the chicken. Let the garlic get fragrant but not browned—just enough to wake up your tastebuds. Pour in heavy cream and a splash of chicken broth, stirring to bring it all together.
Add freshly grated parmesan cheese gradually, letting each handful melt fully before adding more. This step helps create a smooth, silky texture. Then, for extra richness, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese. It adds body and a slight tang that balances the savory garlic.
If the sauce feels too thick, you can loosen it with a bit of reserved pasta water—more on that later. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer on low until it thickens naturally.
This creamy garlic parmesan sauce is also perfect over other meals—just like how the luscious sauce in this Creamy Beef and Rotel Macaroni gives it that irresistible texture.
Before moving on to the pasta, now’s a good time to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. A pinch of salt, cracked black pepper, or a touch more parmesan can take it from good to unforgettable.
Pasta Perfection and Cheesy Magic
Choosing the Right Twisted Pasta
The “twisted” in this dish isn’t just for fun—it’s functional. Twisted pasta shapes like rotini, cavatappi, or fusilli are ideal because their grooves catch every bit of the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. This isn’t just a pretty pasta—it’s a smart one.
Boil your pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. That starchy liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s thickness later.
While the pasta cooks, you can keep the sauce warm on low. Once the noodles are done, stir them directly into the pan of sauce and fold gently. The heat from the noodles will help the cheese finish melting, and if needed, you can stir in a little pasta water for that glossy, smooth finish.
Craving another dish where pasta truly shines? Try this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe—it’s hearty, family-approved, and just as comforting.
Turning Up the Cheese Factor
Now for the best part—melting in more cheese. We already used parmesan and cream cheese in the sauce, but now it’s time for mozzarella. Sprinkle a generous handful over the pasta-chicken mixture while it’s still hot, then cover the pan for a few minutes.
Once the cheese melts, gently stir it in for that stretchy, gooey texture that makes this meal irresistible. You’ll know it’s right when your spoon pulls away in cheesy strands.
If you’re like me and can never get enough cheese, consider adding a little extra sprinkle of shredded mozzarella on top just before serving. It melts beautifully and gives the dish that extra pull factor your family will beg for.
For another creamy, indulgent favorite, check out these Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps. They’re a bite-sized version of this same flavor-packed concept.
Customizing Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Simple Add-ins for Flavor and Nutrition
One of the best things about creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is how flexible it is. Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in a handful of fresh spinach, peas, or chopped broccoli just before adding the pasta to the sauce. They’ll cook gently in the warmth of the sauce and add color and nutrients.
Craving more flavor depth? Sauté chopped onions or mushrooms in the pan before the garlic step. You can also stir in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for an extra punch. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes adds heat without overpowering the dish.
Don’t forget to top it off with something fresh. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil right before serving brings brightness to balance the richness.
If you love recipes that sneak in nutrition and flavor without losing that “comfort food” vibe, try the Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans. It’s another dinner winner that’s hearty and veggie-loaded.
Making It Your Own with Swaps
Not a fan of chicken breasts? No problem. Boneless chicken thighs work beautifully—they’re juicier and even more forgiving if slightly overcooked. You could also use leftover rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
For a different pasta vibe, try penne, shells, or even elbow macaroni. Just stick to shapes that hold onto sauce well. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti—they don’t catch the cheese and garlic the same way.
If you’re avoiding dairy, you can try a lactose-free cream and dairy-free parmesan alternative. The sauce may not be quite as rich, but you’ll still get that savory, garlicky flavor.
Looking for more creative dinner spins? The Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef shows how a little twist on ingredients can make a huge difference in flavor and texture.
FAQs
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To make the sauce thicker, simmer it longer over low heat after adding the cheeses. You can also stir in more cream cheese or a small amount of cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water). To make the sauce thinner, add reserved pasta water or a splash of warm chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely. While twisted pasta like cavatappi or rotini is best for grabbing the sauce, you can use penne, rigatoni, or shells for similar results. Avoid thin pasta like angel hair—it won’t hold the creamy garlic parmesan sauce as well. For more pasta-based comfort, check out this Panda Express Chow Mein for an Asian twist.
What can I add for extra flavor or nutrition?
Sautéed mushrooms, onions, spinach, or peas are great add-ins. You can also sprinkle in red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or a touch of Dijon mustard for extra kick. If you’re feeding a family, adding a veggie like broccoli bulks up the meal without more meat or cheese. Pair it with something fun like the Oven Baked Cheesy Tacos for a family-style dinner night.
How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?
Sear the chicken over medium-high heat until just golden, then remove it from the pan. Don’t overcook it. Thinly sliced breasts cook fast, so keep an eye on them. If needed, finish cooking them gently in the sauce. Using chicken thighs can also help—they’re naturally more moist.
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a restaurant dinner but comes together in 30 minutes or less at home. It’s rich, cozy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it for your family on a weeknight or impressing guests at a dinner party, it’s a guaranteed hit.
And if you’re all about that cheesy comfort, don’t miss our Red Lobster Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie or Amish Hamburger Steak Bake. Both pair perfectly with the warm, savory theme of this dish.
Ready to bring joy back to your table? Start with this recipe—it might just become your new favorite.
