This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken dish is a real treat! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with cheesy twisted pasta, making every bite a cozy experience.
I love how the rich sauce hugs the pasta just right. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up on a busy day—everyone will ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a shortcut, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute and can be tossed in just before serving.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or even whole milk, but note that the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Plant-based cream can also work if you need a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-grated. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute.
Pasta: I love using twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini for this dish, as it holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly. Penne or farfalle are also great choices!
How Do You Make Sure the Sauce is Perfectly Creamy?
Getting the sauce just right is key to this recipe. Start by slowly adding the heavy cream after you sauté the garlic, ensuring it blends well. Here’s how to achieve that creamy goodness:
- After adding garlic, allow it to cook for just a minute so it doesn’t burn.
- When adding the chicken broth, stir to scrape any bits from the pan; this adds great flavor.
- After stirring in the cream and Parmesan, keep stirring until the cheese melts completely, which helps to thicken the sauce.
- Don’t rush the simmering process. Letting it simmer for a few minutes helps achieve that thick, dreamy sauce.
Trust me, with these steps, your sauce will be deliciously creamy every time!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce and Pasta:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 ounces twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to assemble the chicken and pasta, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will help enhance the flavors of the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. These bits add lots of flavor!
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take around 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce, making sure every piece is coated evenly.
8. Melt the Mozzarella:
Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the pasta and stir until it’s melted and everything is nice and creamy.
9. Return the Chicken:
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the cheesy pasta. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken.
10. Heat Together:
Cook the chicken and pasta together for another 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, and serve your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta warm. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method: sealed in a bag and submerged in cold water for a few hours.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. However, the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just mix them together with the pasta before serving. Reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy and avoid overcooking the chicken.
