This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a true comfort food dream! The chicken is tender and smothered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce that hugs every spiral of pasta.
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheesy pasta? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I enjoy making this dish for family dinners, and the leftovers always vanish faster than you can say “cheesy!”
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a substitute, chicken thighs work well too and add extra flavor. For a lighter option, try using turkey breasts.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the dish its rich creaminess. You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy cream if you’re looking for a lighter version, but be aware the sauce may be less thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and texture. If you run out, Pecorino Romano is a suitable substitute, though it’s saltier. Nutritional yeast offers a vegan alternative with a cheesy flavor profile.
Pasta: Twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini holds the sauce well. If you want a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free pasta. Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber, making for a healthier dish.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, follow these simple tips:
- Start with even thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them gently to even out the thickness, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). Overcooking will dry it out.
- Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Sauce?
Creating the perfect creamy sauce requires careful attention:
- After cooking the garlic, add chicken broth first. This helps dissolve any browned bits on the skillet for more flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling to maintain a smooth texture.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. This helps to incorporate the cheese fully into the sauce.
With these tips, you’ll end up with a delightfully creamy, flavorful dish that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a family weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by sprinkling salt and pepper generously on both sides of the chicken breasts. This adds flavor throughout the dish!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. You want to cook it until it’s fragrant but be careful not to burn it.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble softly as you prepare the next steps!
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
6. Cook the Pasta:
While your sauce is simmering, cook the twisted pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss in the butter and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts and the pasta is thoroughly coated in that delicious creamy sauce.
8. Slice the Chicken:
Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips. You can lay these slices right on top of the cheesy pasta to serve.
9. Garnish and Serve:
To finish it all off, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color. Now your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta is ready to enjoy!
Gather your loved ones, dig in, and enjoy the yumminess of this comforting dish!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little cream if the sauce thickens too much.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with plant-based chicken or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add more cheese as desired!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
These questions should help clarify common concerns and provide useful tips for preparing this delicious dish!
