This dish is a creamy delight! We have tender chicken coated in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, paired with cheesy twisted pasta that just pulls you in for a second helping.
I can’t help but smile when I serve this. The pasta is wonderfully cheesy, and it’s so easy to whip up—perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use turkey or skip the meat altogether and go for veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a meatless version.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce, but if you’re watching your calories, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter alternative. For a dairy-free option, try almond or cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for flavor. In a pinch, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan choice. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
Pasta: Twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini holds the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta, or try whole grain for extra fiber. You can even use spiralized veggies like zucchini for a lighter option.
How Do You Cook the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking the chicken perfectly is crucial, so here’s how to get it nice and tender. Start by seasoning the chicken well; this adds flavor throughout. When you heat the olive oil, aim for medium-high heat so it sears nicely, creating a flavorful crust.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, adjusting the time based on thickness. You want it golden brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t forget to let it rest before serving—that helps keep the juices locked in!
How Can You Make the Sauce Extra Creamy?
The sauce is the star, so let’s make it creamy! After sautéing the garlic, add the heavy cream and chicken broth to create a smooth base. Here’s how to maximize creaminess:
- Simmer the mixture on low heat to let it thicken gradually—this avoids burning.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese to help it melt evenly without clumps.
- If it’s not as thick as you want, simmer a bit longer or add more cheese!
What’s the Best Way to Combine Everything?
Combining the pasta with the sauce should be easy to ensure every twist is coated. Here’s how:
- Mix the cooked pasta into the cheesy sauce gently so it doesn’t break.
- Consider saving a bit of pasta water before draining; adding a splash can help adjust the sauce consistency.
- Finally, top with the chicken and spoon more sauce to make it extra luscious!
Enjoy this comforting dish, knowing you’ve got all the tips for delectable results!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Twisted Pasta:
- 8 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With a little bit of multitasking, you can have it all ready in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave something special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the twisted pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This step adds flavor right into the meat, making it delicious!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. After cooking, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant and golden.
5. Add Liquids:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring to combine everything. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes so it thickens slightly.
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and delightful.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to coat them thoroughly with the sauce. Let them simmer for another 2-3 minutes in that velvety goodness.
8. Prepare Cheesy Pasta:
In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the cooked twisted pasta along with the heavy cream (or milk), shredded mozzarella, and additional Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until you get a creamy cheese-coated pasta. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
9. Serve:
Time to plate! Put a generous serving of cheesy twisted pasta on each plate and top it off with the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top will brighten the dish beautifully!
10. Enjoy:
Serve immediately and dig in to this rich and comforting meal. Every bite is sure to be a hit!
This recipe elevates your dining experience, combining tender chicken in a rich sauce with cheesy twisted pasta. Perfect for creating memorable meal moments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini works great for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, farfalle, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over low heat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To lighten it up, consider using chicken breast instead of thighs, substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk, and decreasing the amount of cheese. You can also amp up the veggies by adding spinach or broccoli to the pasta!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little chicken broth or cream if the pasta seems dry. Enjoy again!
