This creamy garlic parmesan chicken is a cozy delight! It features tender chicken cooked in a rich and cheesy sauce, paired with twisted pasta that hugs the sauce perfectly.
Honestly, what could be better than cheesy pasta and chicken? 🍝 I love how quick this meal comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights while still feeling special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish light and tender. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a flavorful option. You can also swap chicken for a plant-based alternative like tofu or tempeh.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. For a lighter alternative, try half-and-half or coconut cream. If you’re dairy-free, creamy cashew or almond milk works well, just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor and melting quality. If you don’t have it, pecorino romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can be used instead, though the taste will vary a bit.
Twisted Pasta: Rotini or fusilli are excellent for trapping creamy sauce, but you can use any pasta such as penne or shells. Gluten-free pasta is a good substitute too, just adjust cooking times.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
A creamy sauce is all about controlling heat and timing! To avoid curdling, follow these steps:
- Cook the garlic on medium heat to release its flavor without burning.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream gently, and keep the pan on a low simmer. High heat could cause the cream to separate.
- When adding cheese, do it gradually and stir continuously to help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
These tips will ensure your sauce is perfectly creamy for the pasta!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total, including around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll be enjoying a flavorful dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the twisted pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is nice and creamy.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Now, add the cooked twisted pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to make sure the pasta is evenly coated in that luscious sauce. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts into the pasta.
6. Serve:
Slice the rested chicken breasts and place them over the cheesy pasta. If you like, spoon extra sauce over the chicken pieces for added flavor. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta! It’s comfort food at its best!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While twisted pasta like rotini or fusilli is great for holding the sauce, feel free to use any pasta you like, such as penne, shell, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or a creamy nut milk (like cashew) can work. Just be sure to check for unsweetened varieties!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. Microwaving is also an option, but be sure to heat in intervals and stir in between to avoid overcooking.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the creamy sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Assemble everything just before serving for the best texture. Store components separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to eat!
