This creamy garlic parmesan chicken is a real treat! It’s loaded with rich flavors and pairs perfectly with cheesy twisted pasta for a comforting meal the whole family will love.
Honestly, who can resist the creamy goodness and cheesy pasta? I like to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top because, let’s be honest, you can never have too much cheese! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and stay tender. You can swap these for thighs if you prefer dark meat or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: This is key for creaminess. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version, although the flavor will change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can work too! For a lower-sodium option, try nutritional yeast to still get that cheesy flavor.
Twisted Pasta: I love using twisted pasta like fusilli. If unavailable, any pasta shape will do, like penne or spaghetti, but keep an eye on the cooking times!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
The chicken is the star here, so you want it juicy and tender. Here’s how:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot enough so the chicken gets a nice sear. This helps lock in the juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if necessary.
- Keep the heat at medium-high, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side without moving the chicken around too much.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Letting the chicken rest after cooking will also help keep it juicy, so don’t skip that step!
How Can I Make the Pasta Extra Creamy?
For that dreamy creamy pasta, follow these tips:
- After cooking the pasta, toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the cheese sauce.
- Gradually add the cheeses and cream over low heat, stirring constantly to ensure everything melts together smoothly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, adding a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up while adding flavor.
Remember, the cheese will continue to thicken as it cools, so aim for a slightly looser consistency when serving!
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 black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For The Cheesy Twisted Pasta:
- 8 ounces twisted pasta (fusilli, rotini, or gemelli)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking the chicken and pasta. It’s a quick yet satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Twisted Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cheese and Seasonings:
Now, it’s time to make it deliciously cheesy! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning. If you like a bit of heat, toss in the crushed red pepper flakes. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens just a little.
5. Return the Chicken to the Sauce:
Put the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, coating them well with the creamy sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 2 minutes, soaking up all that fantastic flavor.
6. Prepare the Cheesy Twisted Pasta:
In a separate saucepan, combine the cooked twisted pasta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, heavy cream, and butter. Heat this mixture gently over low heat, stirring continuously until everything melts together and forms a creamy sauce. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate a generous serving of the cheesy twisted pasta and top it with one or two chicken breasts drizzled with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you wish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
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 best for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta, reducing the amount of heavy cream, or using a combination of milk and Greek yogurt instead. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor without added fat.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently before mixing with the pasta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce if needed.
