Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce, served over buttery twisted pasta tossed with melted cheese. This recipe combines a rich, flavorful sauce with simple ingredients, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced or pounded thin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: a pinch of Italian seasoning or parsley for garnish
Pasta
- 8 oz (225 g) twisted pasta (fusilli, rotini, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Extra Parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the twisted pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and forms a creamy sauce.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the garlic Parmesan sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
- Prepare Cheesy Pasta: In a separate pot or the drained pasta pot, toss the cooked pasta with butter and shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and coats the pasta in a creamy coating. Optionally, stir in a spoonful of the Parmesan sauce from the skillet for extra flavor.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy twisted pasta and top with the garlic Parmesan chicken. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley or Italian seasoning if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Choice of pasta shape can be varied; other short pasta like penne or elbow macaroni works as well.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce can add a subtle spicy kick.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken breasts to keep them tender and juicy.
