Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

There’s something unmistakably magical about a dinner that brings everyone rushing to the table—even before you call them. The aroma of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta wafting through the kitchen feels like a delicious invitation. It’s that kind of dish that people request by name, the one that becomes part of a family’s food tradition.

I first made this recipe on a rainy evening, back when I was experimenting with ways to combine comfort and elegance in one pan. Inspired by Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house—where garlic, butter, and cheese reigned supreme—I wanted to create a meal that had all the warmth of a rustic classic but with a smooth, restaurant-style finish.

Since then, it has become a go-to for casual weeknights, cozy weekends, and even special occasions. Twisted pasta cradles the creamy garlic parmesan sauce so perfectly, and the chicken, seared to a golden edge, adds both heartiness and tenderness. This dish is beloved for its simplicity, depth of flavor, and that extra-cheesy bite that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta ticks all the boxes for an ideal comfort food:

• Deliciously indulgent: Packed with garlic, Parmesan, cream, and mozzarella, it’s pure flavor in every forkful.
• One-pan ease: Besides boiling the pasta, most of this dish comes together in a single skillet.
• Kid and adult favorite: Creamy, cheesy, and not spicy—it appeals to even the pickiest eaters.
• Meal-prep friendly: It keeps well, so you can make it ahead and enjoy stress-free dinners.
• Great for gatherings: It looks impressive served in a big dish with parsley on top, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

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INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 ounces twisted pasta (like rotini or fusilli)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Boil the pasta:
Start by cooking your twisted pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Before draining, scoop out about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water—this will help loosen the sauce later if needed. Set the pasta aside.

2. Season and sear the chicken:
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces in a single layer for 5–6 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Create the garlic base:
Lower the heat and melt the remaining butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—not browned.

4. Build the sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Then add the cream cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce.

5. Add the cheeses:
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from clumping or separating. If the sauce thickens too much, whisk in some reserved pasta water for a smoother consistency.

6. Combine and finish:
Return the seared chicken and cooked pasta to the pan. Gently toss to coat every piece with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes to marry the flavors.

7. Garnish and serve:
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately. The cheesy aroma and golden chicken make it irresistible straight from the skillet.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Thin-slice chicken evenly so it cooks fast and remains juicy.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor—pre-shredded versions don’t melt as smoothly.
• Don’t rush the cheese—melt it on low heat to keep your sauce creamy.
• Save that pasta water! It’s liquid gold for adjusting the thickness of the sauce.

DETAILS

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Contains dairy, gluten, and meat

NOTES

• Want to sneak in some greens? Add baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut for busy nights.
• Swap twisted pasta with penne, cavatappi, or shells—anything that holds the sauce well.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Estimated per serving:
Calories: 600 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do you make the sauce creamy without it curdling?
To keep the sauce creamy without curdling, gently simmer it over low to medium heat and avoid boiling. Add dairy ingredients like cream or cheese gradually, stirring constantly. Tempering—slowly mixing a bit of hot liquid into the cream before adding it in—also helps maintain a smooth texture.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of twisted pasta?
Yes, you can substitute any pasta you like. Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well, while spaghetti or linguine provide a lighter texture. Just choose a pasta shape that complements the thickness of the sauce and clings to it nicely.

Is creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta freezer-friendly?
Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. For best results, cool it completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy consistency.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm slowly on the stovetop with a bit of milk or cream stirred in.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• A Cozy Classic: Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
• The Cozy Comfort of Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Chicken Pasta
• Spicy Noodles

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table with happy anticipation. It’s a dish that feels like home, tastes like comfort, and satisfies like nothing else. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself after a long day, this is the kind of recipe that leaves lasting impressions. So tie on your apron, stir that sauce slowly, and get ready to make something unforgettable.