Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 12 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli); Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a rich and comforting meal that brings together tender pan-seared chicken and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a creamy, cheesy garlic sauce. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for when I want something indulgent and satisfying—like a restaurant-style dinner right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers layers of flavor in every bite. The chicken is juicy and seasoned, the sauce is smooth and garlicky, and the cheesy twisted pasta pulls it all together into one ultra-cozy dish. It’s surprisingly simple to make and always feels like a special treat. Whether I’m cooking for family or guests, this one-pan combo of creamy sauce, pasta, and chicken never disappoints.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika (optional)
Italian seasoning
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
Butter
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

I season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of paprika for color.
I heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through, then set it aside.
In the same pan, I melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
I pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
I bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then stir in grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
While the sauce thickens, I cook the twisted pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.
I add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, tossing it to coat well.
I slice the chicken and return it to the skillet, placing it over the cheesy pasta.
I finish it off with chopped parsley or basil for a touch of freshness before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 20 minutes to cook the chicken and sauce, and another 10–12 minutes for the pasta, so the total time is around 45 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms in the sauce for extra depth. When I want a little kick, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes. For a lighter version, I swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use less cheese. I’ve also made this with grilled chicken or shrimp when I want to change up the protein.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The sauce thickens as it cools, so a little liquid helps bring it back to the right texture.

FAQs

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

I like using rotini or fusilli because their twists hold onto the creamy sauce, but penne or farfalle also work well.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I’ve used shredded rotisserie chicken when short on time—just warm it in the sauce before serving.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Definitely. I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and cut down the cheese slightly. It’s still creamy, just a bit less rich.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat it gently and stir before mixing with the pasta.

What sides go well with this dish?

I usually serve it with a green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the kind of comforting, flavor-packed meal I love turning to when I want something delicious and satisfying. With tender chicken, a silky sauce, and cheesy pasta, it’s always a hit at the table—and easier to make than it looks. It’s a dinner that delivers on every level: cozy, creamy, and crowd-pleasing.