This dreamy dish pairs tender chicken with a rich garlic Parmesan sauce and cheesy twisted pasta. It’s comfort food that’s easy to whip up and oh-so-delicious!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love cheesy pasta? 🍝 I often find myself cleaning the plate, especially when that creamy sauce is involved. It’s a family favorite for sure!
I love how simple this recipe is. Just cook the chicken, toss in the sauce, and mix with the pasta. Dinner on the table in no time and everyone is happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be a great substitute for added moisture and flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a bold flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder or minced jarred garlic can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Just note, the sauce may be less creamy. Vegan options like coconut cream can also work for plant-based diets.
Cheese: Parmesan is key for that salty bite. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can substitute well. Nutritional yeast is an excellent dairy-free alternative for a cheesy flavor.
Pasta: Twisted pasta adds texture, but feel free to switch it up! Penne or farfalle could also do the trick.
How Do You Perfectly Cook Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time! Start with even thickness by gently pounding the chicken if it’s uneven. This helps it cook evenly.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F is ideal.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it tender!
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
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Cheesy Twisted Pasta:
- 12 ounces twisted pasta (such as fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, for pasta water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy and decadent dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the chicken and pasta, while the sauce simmers and thickens to perfection. Dinner will be ready in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, take your chicken breasts and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will give them a lovely flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine Pasta and Cheese:
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet, and stir to coat it evenly in the creamy sauce. Toss in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, mixing until the cheeses are melted and everything is well combined.
7. Serve:
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and place them on top of the cheesy twisted pasta. Spoon extra creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken for flavor. If you’d like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, comforting meal! Every bite is sure to delight!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely first. The safest way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce on the stove and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Yes! While twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Options like penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti will still pair well with the creamy sauce.
