Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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Few dishes can match the cozy, indulgent comfort of a big bowl of creamy garlic parmesan chicken paired with cheesy twisted pasta. Each forkful brings together tender bites of chicken, the bold savor of garlic, and a velvety parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to every curve of the pasta. The gentle creaminess balances beautifully with a hint of saltiness from the cheese, making it impossible to resist seconds.

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile. It works as a heartwarming family dinner, an impressive date-night meal, or even a cozy Sunday treat. The cheesy twisted pasta adds a fun, textural twist, catching all that luscious sauce in every nook and cranny, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite.

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

For this recipe, twisted pasta shapes like rotini, gemelli, or cavatappi are perfect. Their spirals and ridges hold onto the sauce, delivering creamy goodness with every bite. However, if you prefer a classic option, penne or fettuccine also work wonderfully.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

• Chicken breast or thighs – The protein star, offering tender, juicy bites that soak up the rich sauce.
• Twisted pasta (rotini, gemelli, or cavatappi) – Ideal for trapping creamy sauce in their spirals.
• Garlic – Brings aromatic depth and a savory kick to the dish.
• Heavy cream – Creates that luscious, velvety base for the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness.
• Butter – Gives the sauce a silky mouthfeel and enhances flavor.
• Chicken broth – Lightens the sauce while layering in savory notes.
• Olive oil – Helps brown the chicken to perfection.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian herbs) – Balances and elevates all the flavors.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts into the pasta for extra gooeyness.

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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Sear each side until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Lower the heat and whisk in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess, stirring until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and sprinkle with extra parmesan or fresh parsley. Serve hot for maximum creaminess.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

This dish is best served fresh when the sauce is silky and hot. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauce’s smooth texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti will work well, though twisted pasta holds the sauce best.

Can I make this with pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Just slice the pre-cooked chicken and warm it in the sauce before adding the pasta.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use less cheese for a lighter but still flavorful dish.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Cream-based sauces can separate after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

How do I prevent my sauce from clumping?

Grate your own parmesan from a block and add it slowly over low heat to ensure smooth melting.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, you’ll also enjoy these recipes:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta
• Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta

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Tried it? Let me know how yours turned out! Did you stick with twisted pasta or try another shape? Did you go heavy on the garlic or keep it mild? I love seeing your creative twists—share them in the comments!

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