Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, this Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is your next favorite dinner-in-a-bowl. Every forkful is packed with spiraled pasta enveloped in a silky garlic Parmesan sauce, clinging to tender slices of juicy chicken. The contrast of textures, the richness of the cheese, and the whisper of garlic make it a heartwarming comfort food that still feels a little bit fancy.

It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone back for seconds, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back Sunday dinner. Twisted pasta (like rotini or fusilli) holds the sauce perfectly, and when paired with golden-seared chicken in a creamy base, it transforms into a dish that feels like a hug in food form.

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

This dish is a flavor powerhouse while still being surprisingly simple to make. The garlic-infused sauce is creamy without being overly heavy, thanks to the balance of Parmesan cheese and cream. It can easily be adapted with extra veggies or herbs, and the twisted pasta captures every bit of the luscious sauce. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers—if you even have any.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

This recipe shines with twisted pasta like rotini, fusilli, or gemelli. Their nooks and spirals do a great job of holding onto the sauce, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. You can substitute with penne or farfalle if needed, but the twist adds that irresistible texture that really complements the creamy sauce and chicken.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

What makes this dish so special is how each ingredient layers flavor into the final result. The chicken provides heartiness, the cream and Parmesan build a velvety sauce, and the twisted pasta ensures that every spoonful delivers a taste of all the good stuff.

• Chicken breast: Sliced thin and seared, it brings a juicy, savory base to the meal.
• Twisted pasta: Think rotini or fusilli, ideal for trapping all that creamy sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic is essential for depth and aroma.
• Heavy cream: The base of the sauce, bringing richness and a smooth texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best, giving the sauce a nutty, salty edge.
• Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and add richness.
• Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the sauce.
• Parsley: Optional, but adds a bright finish when sprinkled on top.

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

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your twisted pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t let it brown.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the garlic butter, stir well, and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet. Toss well to coat everything in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Garnish with chopped parsley if using, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

It’s easy to turn a great pasta dish into a so-so one if you overlook a few things. First, avoid overcooking the pasta—it should be al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce. Make sure your chicken is seared at a high enough temperature to lock in those juices; pale chicken equals bland flavor. When it comes to the sauce, don’t rush it. Letting the Parmesan melt slowly ensures a silky texture without clumps.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Twisted Pasta

This recipe makes enough for about 4 generous servings. Serve it fresh and hot, ideally right after mixing the pasta with the sauce so it maintains its creamy consistency. If you need to reheat it, add a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Broccoli

Its slight bitterness complements the richness of the pasta.

Caprese Skewers

Tomatoes and mozzarella add a light, fresh note.

Lemon Asparagus

The citrusy zing brightens the overall meal.

Sauteed Spinach

Light and earthy, spinach adds a nice balance.

Tomato Basil Soup

This cozy combo works well as a starter.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Adds a sweet-savory depth to the plate.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you might fall for these flavor-packed favorites too:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dreamy, creamy dish with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta offers bold, rustic comfort with sausage and greens.
• Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti makes weeknights easier without sacrificing taste.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini takes the creamy Parmesan combo even deeper.
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach if you’re in the mood for seafood with a cheesy twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it again when that creamy craving strikes.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the pasta shape or add a hint of spice? I love seeing how these dishes get your personal touch. Questions are always welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and happier.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting and comfort food ideas on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to meals!

Conclusion

Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken isn’t just another pasta dinner—it’s a luscious, savory indulgence that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Between the golden-seared chicken, the swirls of pasta catching every drop of garlic Parmesan cream, and the hearty, satisfying nature of the dish, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.

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