Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Creamy, juicy, and packed with cheesy comfort, this dish features tender chicken strips and twisted pasta in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce.
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into thin strips
- 12 oz Twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli) uncooked
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil for cooking chicken
- 4 tablespoons Butter divided (2 tablespoons for sauce, 2 tablespoons reserved if desired)
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a blend of dried basil and oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup Heavy cream room temperature
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- 1 1/2 cups Grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated if possible
- 1/2 cup Cream cheese softened, at room temperature for easy melting
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese for topping and extra melty texture
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Twisted Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the twisted pasta according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water (about 1/4 cup) in case you need to thin the sauce.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken strips with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Step 4: Add the Cheeses: Add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and mozzarella to the skillet. Stir until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, loosen with a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Step 5: Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors and heat through.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a rich and cheesy comfort meal.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoother melting. Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easy melting.