This creamy garlic parmesan chicken is just what you need for a delicious dinner! Juicy chicken meets a rich, cheesy sauce that makes every bite special.
The twisted pasta adds a fun twist (pun intended!) to the meal. I love to top it with extra parmesan because why not add more cheese? Yum!
It’s super easy to whip up, perfect for any weeknight. Just cook your chicken, toss in the sauce, and mix with pasta. Quick, cheesy, and oh so satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: This helps to sear the chicken. If you don’t have olive oil, canola or vegetable oil will work too, but I love the taste of olive oil in this recipe.
Heavy Cream: It gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream, though that may change the flavor. I prefer the richness of heavy cream for a cozy meal!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for flavor. If needed, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Twisted Pasta: Fusilli or rotini are great because they hold onto the sauce well. You could also use penne or bowtie pasta, depending on what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken breasts to perfection can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps to sear the outside.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to keep the heat up.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides, and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Resting the chicken briefly after cooking allows the juices to distribute, making it even more tender. Enjoy those perfectly cooked pieces on a plate!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15 minutes getting everything ready and cooking the chicken and pasta, followed by a quick 10-15 minutes to whip up that creamy sauce. It’s a fantastic dish that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the twisted pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute or until the garlic becomes fragrant (but don’t let it burn!). Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, add the Italian seasoning, optional red pepper flakes for a little kick, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This will create a deliciously creamy flavor!
5. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, making sure to spoon the creamy sauce generously over it. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Then, add the cooked twisted pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat it in that wonderful sauce.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Now, it’s time to serve! Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta hot from the skillet!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini works great for holding the creamy sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or bowtie. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If heavy cream isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option, or even use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Cook and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stove, then add the cooked pasta to coat in the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
