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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

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Golden, seared chicken meets tender, spiral pasta cloaked in a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce—this is comfort food at its finest. The creamy sauce is laced with garlic, Parmesan, and a whisper of herbs, perfectly coating the swirls of pasta and pairing beautifully with juicy, pan-seared chicken breast.

This dish delivers a cozy, satisfying meal with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a casual dinner party, this combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and tender chicken is bound to become a repeat favorite.

Ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter (for searing)

For the Sauce and Pasta:

  • 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 1 3/4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini (or fusilli) pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute to form a roux.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Base

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

Step 8: Plate and Serve

Slice the rested chicken and place over the sauced pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). It should be golden on the outside and white with clear juices inside.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works well. Just warm it through before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less rich.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or farfalle all pair well with the creamy sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s quite mild. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a kick.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and pasta a day ahead. Store separately and combine with sauce when ready to serve for best texture.


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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta


  • Author: Sophia Langley
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Treat yourself to a plate of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta—a luscious, easy dinner recipe perfect for weeknights or weekend comfort meals. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to perfection, then served atop a bed of rotini pasta smothered in a garlicky, Parmesan-rich cream sauce. If you’re browsing for dinner ideas, quick comfort food, or pasta dishes that feel both indulgent and simple, this one hits all the right notes. It’s a savory, creamy, soul-warming experience you won’t forget.


Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp butter (for searing)

For the Sauce and Pasta:

12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta

2 tbsp butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp flour

1 3/4 cups whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped parsley (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest.
  3. Meanwhile, cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Sauté garlic for 1 minute, then stir in flour to form a roux.
  5. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.
  6. Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
  7. Add pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat well.
  8. Slice chicken and place over the pasta. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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