Imagine tender, golden-seared chicken simmered in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to every spiral of cheesy twisted pasta. This dish combines the elegance of restaurant dining with the comfort of homemade flavor — all ready in under 40 minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a romantic dinner, this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken will earn you compliments before the first bite. Let’s dive into how to create this luxurious yet approachable masterpiece.
🥘 Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich, Creamy, and Comforting: A sauce that’s perfectly balanced — cheesy, garlicky, and smooth.
- Restaurant Quality, Home Simplicity: Made with simple ingredients found in any kitchen.
- Family Favorite: Kid-approved, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with veggies, spices, or protein swaps.
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally into cutlets)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Twisted Pasta:
- 300g (10 oz) twisted pasta (rotini, fusilli, or cavatappi)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (for extra silkiness)
- 1 tbsp butter
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for serving
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add your twisted pasta and cook until al dente (firm but tender).
- Drain and toss with 1 tbsp butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
🧠 Chef’s Tip: Twisted pasta (like rotini or cavatappi) traps the creamy sauce in every curve, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove chicken and set aside on a warm plate.
🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — it ensures even browning and a crisp, flavorful crust.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up the golden bits (these add deep flavor).
- Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until thick and glossy.
🧈 Flavor Insight: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory depth that defines this dish — don’t rush this step.
Step 4: Combine It All
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, coating it in the sauce.
- Add cooked pasta, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Toss gently to combine.
- Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta.
✨ The result: silky, creamy sauce intertwined with cheesy twisted pasta and juicy chicken that melts in your mouth.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
- Pair with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For an elegant twist, serve with a glass of light Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Use fresh garlic and Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and adds rich umami flavor.
- Don’t overcook the sauce: Remove from heat as soon as it thickens — it continues to thicken off-heat.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Light version: Use half-and-half and reduce cheese slightly for a lower-calorie version.
🌿 Variations & Add-Ons
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Baked Version: Transfer to a casserole, top with mozzarella, and broil until golden and bubbly.
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.
- Freeze: Not recommended due to dairy separation, but can be done for short-term storage.
⚡ Nutritional Overview (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 36g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
A satisfying comfort meal with a balanced ratio of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. For best results, mix milk with 1 tablespoon of flour to slightly thicken it.
2. What’s the best pasta shape for creamy sauces?
Twisted or ridged pasta (like fusilli or cavatappi) holds creamy sauces best due to their texture.
3. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely. Bake seasoned chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then add to the sauce.
4. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free certified.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is more than a meal — it’s a comforting experience. Every bite is rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying, made from simple ingredients yet tasting like fine dining.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish delivers every time. Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to recipe for comfort, warmth, and wow-factor flavor.
⭐ If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a rating, share your version, and spread the love — good food is meant to be shared!
