Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the kind of dish that makes you sigh with satisfaction before the first bite even hits your mouth. It’s rich, cozy, and unapologetically indulgent—exactly what you need after a long day of juggling work, kids, errands, and the “what’s for dinner?” dilemma. This recipe is your weeknight savior and your weekend comfort go-to, all rolled into one pan of cheesy, garlicky goodness.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, hungry teens, or just treating yourself (because you deserve it), this dish has your back. Plus, it comes together with simple pantry staples and minimal prep. Let’s make magic with chicken and cheese, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Let’s be honest—this dish is basically the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Here’s why it’s worth a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

One skillet, no stress: Everything comes together in one pan (except boiling pasta), which means fewer dishes and more Netflix time.
Creamy meets cheesy: Parmesan, cream cheese, and mozzarella team up to create a dreamy sauce that clings to every bite.
Twisted pasta = flavor trap: Rotini or fusilli are the perfect choice to soak up all that garlicky goodness.
Customizable: Don’t like spice? Skip the red pepper flakes. Want veggies? Throw in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. You’re the boss.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this cozy meal to life:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
12 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli recommended)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp butter (divided)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your twisted pasta and cook until just al dente. That little bit of firmness makes all the difference. Drain and don’t forget to save 1/2 cup of pasta water—you’ll thank yourself later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you want a subtle heat that says “I’m fun but not spicy-spicy”). Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Set it aside but keep those delicious browned bits in the pan!

Step 3: Make That Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, add 2 tbsp of butter to the same skillet, and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes. (Your kitchen will start smelling like heaven on a cozy fall evening.)

Now pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly. You’re building flavor here—slow and steady wins the creamy race.

Step 4: Say Cheese!

Turn the heat to low and add:

Parmesan
Cream cheese
Mozzarella

Stir until it all melts into a velvety, creamy sauce. If it gets a little too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until it’s silky smooth. No lumps allowed.

Step 5: Put It All Together

Toss the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Mix gently until every twist and bite is gloriously coated. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes more—just long enough for the flavors to mingle like old friends at a dinner party.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan (because more cheese = more joy). Serve hot, maybe with a glass of white wine and a big smile.

Aneta’s Tip: Embrace the Sauce Splatter

Quick story—this recipe was born on a busy Tuesday evening when I was trying to fix something “fancy-ish” that my kids would actually eat. The first time I made it, I splattered sauce all over my stovetop. And you know what? Nobody cared. They were too busy scraping their plates clean.

Moral of the story: it doesn’t have to look perfect to taste amazing.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Yes! If cream cheese isn’t your thing, you can swap it with a bit more mozzarella or even mascarpone for a milder flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Technically yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Creamy sauces can separate after freezing and reheating, so eat it while it’s hot and melty!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Sure! Penne, farfalle, or any short pasta that holds sauce well will work just fine.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the perfect recipe for when you need something delicious, filling, and just a little indulgent. It’s comforting without being complicated—and honestly, who isn’t looking for more of that?

Whether you’re whipping this up on a Monday night or serving it to impress your weekend guests, one thing’s for sure: you’ll be adding this creamy chicken pasta to your regular dinner rotation in no time. So grab that skillet, pour yourself a glass of something nice, and let’s bring the magic back to dinnertime.

Happy cooking,
Aneta 💛

More Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

If Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta made your taste buds do a happy dance, you’re in for a treat! There’s a whole world of indulgent, comforting, and easy-to-make chicken dishes waiting for you right here on Chicken Magic Recipes. Whether you’re looking for bold flavors, oven-baked magic, or another pasta night winner, these recipes are perfect companions to your creamy chicken journey:

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – Another creamy pasta classic with a dreamy sauce that wraps every bite in cheesy, garlicky bliss.
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese – This one takes comfort food to another level with crispy chicken and a baked mac ‘n cheese base that’s downright addictive.
Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce – If you’re craving that golden, crispy exterior with creamy sauce vibes, this dish brings the best of both worlds.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo – Looking to switch things up from pasta? This one-pot wonder offers a rich, savory spin with orzo and hearty sausage flavor.

These recipes not only expand your creamy chicken repertoire but also bring the same easy-to-follow, family-friendly feel you love. Keep the dinner table excitement going with these flavorful favorites!