Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta: A Dinner That’s Pure Comfort 🍗🧄🧀
If you’re craving a dinner that’s rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta will hit every note perfectly. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luxuriously creamy garlic parmesan sauce, served over pasta that’s loaded with melty cheese and just the right amount of bite.
With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen — without hours of fuss. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.
🍴 Ingredients Overview
For the Chicken & Sauce:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tender and juicy, the star of the dish.
2 tablespoons olive oil
For perfectly searing the chicken.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Adds richness and helps create the sauce base.
4 cloves garlic, minced
Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
1 cup heavy cream
Creates the luscious, velvety sauce.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (not listed but recommended)
Essential for that rich, cheesy flavor and sauce thickening.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Twisted Pasta:
12 ounces twisted pasta (like fusilli, rotini, or gemelli)
The twists hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
For melty, gooey goodness.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
When butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
Step 5: Serve
Slice the chicken breasts and serve them on a bed of the creamy cheesy twisted pasta. Spoon any extra sauce over the chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and additional Parmesan if desired.
🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Dish
Creamy and comforting: The rich garlic Parmesan sauce wraps the chicken and pasta in silky goodness.
Simple yet elegant: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
Perfect for weeknights: Quick to make but impressive enough for guests.
Customizable: Swap pasta types or cheeses to suit your taste.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips for Success
Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated for a smoother sauce.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Reserve pasta water — it’s magic for adjusting sauce thickness.
For a bit of green, toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach just before serving.
🥗 Suggested Side Dishes
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
Simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted asparagus or green beans
🧊 Storage and Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.