This dish features tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, served over cheesy twisted pasta. It’s comfort food that warms both the heart and tummy!
This meal is perfect for when you’re craving a little cheesy goodness! I love how quick it comes together—just a few ingredients and you’re ready to impress anyone at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Twisted Pasta: Fusilli or rotini is great for catching the creamy sauce. If you need a substitute, try penne or farfalle. Both will still work nicely!
Chicken: For a quicker prep, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just add it to the sauce toward the end to heat it through without needing to cook it fully.
Heavy Cream: This is essential for creaminess, but you can swap it for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter base. The flavor will change a bit, yet still delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is key for the best flavor. If you’re out, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a good quality store-bought grated Parmesan.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken right is crucial for delicious results. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Make sure the oil in your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice, golden sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space to brown.
- Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning pieces occasionally until they’re no longer pink.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
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 al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown!
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes.
6. Add the Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
7. Finish the Sauce:
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
8. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
9. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts deliciously over the dish.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the twisted pasta with any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package as cooking times may vary.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind, though, that the sauce may be a bit less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a nut-based cream.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some cooked spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to add them after the chicken is cooked and before you mix in the pasta!
