Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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When the craving for comfort food hits, few things are as satisfying as a bowl of cheesy pasta paired with creamy garlic Parmesan chicken. This dish is indulgent without being overwhelming and brings together the savory depth of roasted garlic, the tang of Parmesan, and the richness of cream, all tossed with perfectly twisted pasta that soaks in every ounce of flavor.

This recipe is not just about taste—it’s about texture and contrast too. The twists of the pasta cradle the creamy sauce, while the tender, seasoned chicken adds protein and heartiness. It’s the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend treat, easy enough for a busy day but fancy enough to impress guests.

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

Every bite is layered with comfort and flavor. The garlic Parmesan sauce clings to the nooks of the twisted pasta, making each forkful deeply satisfying. It’s a recipe that strikes the balance between hearty and silky, with cheesy richness that’s irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for a cozy night in, this dish delivers.

Twisted pasta, like rotini or fusilli, adds not only visual interest but also practical texture to the plate. Combined with juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts and a sauce made from simple ingredients that are likely already in your fridge, it turns an ordinary meal into something memorable.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cheesy Twisted Pasta?

Rotini and fusilli are top choices here. Their spiral shapes are made for creamy sauces, capturing bits of garlic and cheese in every groove. But don’t worry if you don’t have these exact types on hand. Any short, twisty pasta will work great. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up well when tossed in the sauce.

If you’re looking to go gluten-free or add some whole grains, try a lentil-based or whole wheat version. They add a slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the Parmesan and cream. The key is choosing a pasta that can hold the sauce well without turning mushy.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a restaurant-worthy meal. Each component plays a role in building up the layers of flavor—from the pasta’s texture to the garlic’s depth and the creamy, cheesy finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli)
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Chicken broth

Each of these ingredients builds the foundation of a luscious sauce while ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Be generous with the garlic and Parmesan—they’re the stars of the show.

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

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat a mix of butter and olive oil, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a ton of flavor to your sauce.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer gently. Slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and thickens the sauce. Adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt and pepper.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the twisted pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce needs thinning, stir in a splash of pasta water.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like. It’s creamy, cheesy, and completely satisfying.

Serving and Storing This Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish serves four to six people generously, making it perfect for a small gathering or a cozy family meal. When plated fresh, the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce glistens and clings to the twisted noodles in the most irresistible way. It’s best served hot straight from the stove, but leftovers are just as satisfying.

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. A gentle reheat over low heat on the stovetop helps maintain the creamy consistency.

What to Serve With Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread with Herb Butter

A warm, crusty slice of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Bonus points for spreading it with herbed butter.

Crisp Caesar Salad

The crunchy romaine, tangy Caesar dressing, and croutons offer a fresh counterpoint to the rich pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli with a squeeze of lemon adds just the right amount of bitterness and brightness.

Sauteed Green Beans

Lightly sauteed with garlic and a hint of chili flakes, green beans bring balance and a little heat.

Caprese Salad Skewers

Mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on a stick with a drizzle of balsamic glaze is an elegant, light side.

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Crispy, cheesy asparagus spears are a flavorful veggie option that pairs beautifully with the main dish.

Mixed Antipasto Platter

Serve up marinated olives, artichokes, cured meats, and a few cheeses for a simple starter that complements the creamy pasta.

Lemon-Infused Sparkling Water

To cut through the richness, a tall glass of lemon sparkling water is a refreshing and sophisticated touch.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re a fan of cheesy, creamy pasta dishes like this one, you might fall in love with these other irresistible creations from our kitchen:

• Creamy Cajun Linguine for a spicy twist on your usual pasta night.
• Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken if you’re after cheesy simplicity with minimal cleanup.
• Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta when you’re craving something bold and colorful.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini for a fusion of Tex-Mex and Italian.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti when you want something ultra comforting and oven-baked.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with rotini or fusilli? Did you add mushrooms or spinach? Maybe a little crushed red pepper?

I love seeing your takes on these recipes. Let’s inspire each other to keep things fresh and flavorful in the kitchen.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, hearty dinners, and crowd-pleasing sweets on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to favorite.

Conclusion

Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party, this dish checks every box for ease, flavor, and creamy indulgence. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your rotation.

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