Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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What if your next dinner could feel like a cozy restaurant meal without leaving your kitchen? That’s exactly what Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta delivers. It’s comfort food with a golden-crusted twist, literally — buttery seared chicken served over creamy cheese-drenched rotini.

This dish strikes that perfect balance between creamy richness and garlicky depth. The chicken is seasoned and seared until it’s beautifully caramelized, then nestled onto a velvety sauce that clings to every curl of pasta. It feels indulgent, but it’s made from everyday ingredients you likely already have.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this dish come together smoothly, having the right kitchen tools is key:

• Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: Essential for getting that deep golden sear on the chicken without drying it out.
• Medium Saucepan: Used to create the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. A nonstick version helps prevent any sticking or scorching.
• Pasta Pot: You’ll want a large pot with salted boiling water to cook the rotini until perfectly al dente.
• Whisk: Helps keep the sauce smooth and lump-free as you incorporate the cheese.
• Tongs or Spatula: To flip the chicken and toss the pasta gently in the sauce.

Each tool here plays a role in delivering texture and timing. From searing to saucing to final assembly, they ensure every element of this comfort dish shines.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean, juicy protein that sears beautifully.
• Olive Oil & Butter: A mix of these two fats creates a flavorful base for searing and adds richness to the sauce.
• Garlic (Freshly Minced): The star aromatic that gives the dish its signature depth and warmth.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the luscious, velvety base of the parmesan sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): Melts into the sauce to create that creamy, cheesy pull.
• Rotini Pasta: The twisted shape captures all the creamy sauce in its curves.
• Italian Seasoning: Balances the flavor of the chicken with earthy herbs.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring everything together.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): For a bright finish and pop of color.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a hot skillet with a mix of olive oil and butter, sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness). Remove and rest.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same pan used for the chicken, add a little more butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently. Gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Pasta

Add cooked pasta directly into the sauce and toss to coat. If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 5: Slice and Serve the Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into thick strips and lay them over the cheesy twisted pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

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Serving and Storing Tips for This Dish

Serve this pasta dish immediately for the best creamy texture. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness. A glass of white wine like Chardonnay also complements the creamy garlic notes beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid microwaving directly without liquid, as the sauce may thicken too much or separate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs (boneless and skinless) also work well and add extra richness due to their higher fat content.

What if I don’t have rotini pasta?

Fusilli, penne, or farfalle are excellent alternatives that also hold sauce nicely.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and chicken in advance and store them separately. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta for best results.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and swap in grilled chicken breast or rotisserie chicken to cut back on cooking fat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta and checking your cheese and cream labels.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli can be added right into the sauce for a more well-rounded meal.

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Want More Creamy Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, you’re in for more comfort-forward meals:

The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta brings a bold, spicy twist to your creamy cravings. Or dive into the baked comfort of the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti for a casserole-style indulgence.

Feeling more meaty? The Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta and Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce are pasta-packed alternatives with savory depth.

And don’t miss the velvety, slow-cooked option of Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese for another twist on cheese-focused comfort.

For more meal inspiration, visit my Pinterest board: LadyPlate on Pinterest. I share daily dinner ideas, pasta pairings, and creamy creations you’ll love.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner or pasta boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use fresh herbs? Did you try it with a different cheese or pasta shape? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others plate it.

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