Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

I can’t tell you how many times this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta has saved dinner time in my house. It’s one of those meals that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen. The tender, golden-seared chicken smothered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce hugs every swirl of rotini pasta, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

What I love most is how comforting and crowd-pleasing it is. Whether I’m cooking for family or having friends over, this dish always gets rave reviews and clean plates. The sauce clings to every groove of the pasta, and the savory flavor from the garlic and cheese with that juicy chicken on top—it’s just perfection on a plate.

---

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta

This dish is rich, creamy, and unapologetically indulgent. It’s everything you want in a comforting dinner—savory garlic, tangy Parmesan, creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and pasta that soaks it all up beautifully. It’s also a one-skillet (and one-pot) wonder with easy cleanup and even easier steps. Plus, it reheats like a dream, so leftovers are something to look forward to!

---

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta?

For this recipe, I always reach for rotini or fusilli pasta. The spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, making each bite flavorful and rich. However, if you don’t have twisted pasta on hand, penne or farfalle are great substitutes. Just be sure to use a pasta shape with plenty of grooves or ridges so it grabs onto all that creamy goodness.

---

Options for Substitutions

While this dish is incredibly tasty as-is, you’ve got room to customize:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful cut. You could also go vegetarian by using sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower instead.
• Pasta: Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat varieties work well. Just adjust the cook time according to the package.
• Cream: If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. The sauce won’t be as rich but still creamy.
• Parmesan: Freshly grated is best, but you can use Pecorino Romano or even a Parmesan blend if needed.
• Herbs: Don’t have parsley? Try fresh basil or thyme for a slightly different flavor twist.

---

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta

• Chicken breasts: These are sliced and seared for a golden, flavorful crust. They add heartiness and protein to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Rotini pasta: The twists and grooves in this shape cling perfectly to the creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying.
• Heavy cream: This is the base of the luscious sauce, bringing velvety texture and richness.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for best results, it melts into the sauce and gives that signature salty, nutty depth.
• Garlic cloves: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor—essential in this dish.
• Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and create the base of the sauce, giving it that irresistible richness.
• Olive oil: Helps brown the chicken beautifully without burning, especially when combined with butter.
• Salt and black pepper: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and balances the creamy elements.
• Parsley (fresh or dried): Adds a pop of color and brightness to contrast the creamy base.
• Mozzarella cheese (optional): For an extra cheesy finish, stir some into the sauce or sprinkle on top before serving.

---

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

---

Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.

---

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up the brown bits from the pan for extra flavor.

---

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir to coat every twist evenly.

---

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Herbs

Slice the cooked chicken and place it over the creamy pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a bit of extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

---

How Long to Cook the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta

The entire recipe comes together in about 30–35 minutes from start to finish:

• Pasta: 8–10 minutes
• Chicken: 10–12 minutes (depending on thickness)
• Sauce: 7–10 minutes
• Final assembly: 3–5 minutes

You can even prep the chicken ahead to save time on busy nights.

---

Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta

• Pound the chicken: For even cooking and better searing, lightly pound the chicken breasts to uniform thickness.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente. It will absorb some sauce as it sits and you want it to hold its shape.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated makes all the difference in the sauce’s texture.
• Deglaze the pan: After searing the chicken, don’t clean the skillet—those brown bits add rich flavor to your sauce.
• Adjust thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a minute or two.
• Let the chicken rest: Before slicing, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken ruins the balance of textures. Cook just until done and let it rest before slicing.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast—too long and it turns bitter. Sauté until just fragrant, no more than a minute.
• Adding Cheese Too Fast: Dumping the Parmesan all at once can cause clumping. Add gradually and stir constantly for a smooth sauce.
• Using Cold Cream: Let the cream sit out for a few minutes before adding to the pan to avoid curdling.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: It’s liquid gold. A splash helps emulsify the sauce and binds it to the pasta beautifully.
• Not Tasting as You Go: Adjusting salt, pepper, and even garlic to taste ensures a flavorful, balanced dish.
• Forgetting to Reserve Sauce Time: Letting the sauce simmer for a minute before combining with pasta thickens it perfectly.

---

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is ideal for soaking up any extra sauce on the plate.

Caesar Salad

The crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and salty Parmesan add contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds a fresh, green bite to balance the creamy, cheesy main dish.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Their acidity cuts through the richness beautifully, and they add vibrant color to the plate.

Lemon-Herb Asparagus

A zesty, fresh side that pairs well with creamy sauces.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze—easy and elegant.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

A simple, earthy side that plays well with the bold garlic notes in the pasta.

A Glass of Chardonnay

A buttery white wine complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

---

Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, let everything cool to room temperature first. Then transfer the pasta and chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The sauce may thicken slightly in the fridge, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up and stir well.

For longer storage, you can freeze it—though the cream sauce may separate a bit upon thawing. If freezing, portion into airtight, freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring to bring the sauce back together.

---

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~650
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Serving Size: About 1½ cups

Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portions used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can! Just slice or shred the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the sauce to warm through before mixing with the pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the sauce and chicken a day in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat both and combine with freshly cooked pasta.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

No problem—use half-and-half or even whole milk with a tablespoon of flour or cream cheese to help thicken the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted cauliflower for a hearty vegetarian option.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not as written. But if you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic when sautéing.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely. Try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses—just make sure they melt well into the sauce.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Avoid adding cold cream to a hot pan. Let it come to room temperature first, and don’t let the sauce boil after adding it.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Use a skillet on low heat and add a splash of milk or water while stirring. You can also microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

---

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta isn’t just a meal—it’s a warm, comforting experience that brings everyone to the table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but rich enough to impress guests. From the first creamy bite to the last twist of pasta, it delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and a touch of indulgence every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is bound to become a repeat favorite.

---

Print