This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken is a real treat! Juicy chicken is coated in a rich, cheesy sauce that pairs perfectly with twisted pasta. It’s a comforting meal that will make your taste buds dance!
I love how cheesy and flavorful this dish is! After a long day, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of pasta topped with chicken and sauce. Your family will be asking for seconds—guaranteed! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could substitute chicken thighs, which add a bit more flavor and are less likely to dry out during cooking.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated works, but you’ll miss some of that fresh taste. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you want a stronger flavor.
Twisted Pasta: I love using rotini or gemelli for this recipe, but feel free to swap in penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! First, be sure to let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking; this helps it cook evenly. Season it well with salt and pepper for great flavor.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken. This ensures a nice sear that locks in moisture.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a good golden color before flipping.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
By following these tips, your chicken will be juicy and delicious every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces twisted pasta (rotini or gemelli)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, while the sauce and pasta come together in about 15 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the twisted pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, cooking it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not burnt. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta and butter to the skillet, gently stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, cover the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and become gooey!
5. Finish the Dish:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over the top. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to heat the chicken through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken alongside the cheesy twisted pasta and enjoy this rich, comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While twisted pasta like rotini or gemelli works great for this recipe, you can also use penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to the pasta you choose!
Can This Recipe Be Made Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream such as coconut cream or cashew cream. For the cheeses, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well. Just keep in mind the flavor may differ slightly!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the sauce, cook the pasta, and add the chicken back in to heat through. This makes for an easy, quick dinner on busy nights!
