Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a cozy dish that warms your heart. The tender chicken is covered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, paired with fun twisted pasta that’s bursting with cheesy goodness!
This dish is perfect for family dinners, and trust me, the sauce will have you licking your plate clean! 🍽️ I love adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that extra pop of flavor and color!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor or even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. If you want a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free choice!
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated Parmesan cheese provides best flavor and creaminess. In a pinch, use Pecorino Romano or even a mix of nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Twisted Pasta: I love using corkscrew or fusilli pasta for this dish. You could easily swap in penne or any pasta you have on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder or garlic salt can stand in, but adjust other salt levels.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky. You want it golden brown outside and juicy inside. Here’s how:
- Start with a medium-high heat to get a nice sear. If your chicken sticks to the pan, it needs more time.
- After flipping, check if it’s cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Rest the chicken after cooking – this helps keep the juices in!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Sauce Creamy?
To achieve that creamy sauce without lumps:
- Heat your broth and cream gently – don’t boil it too hard because it may curdle.
- Whisk in the Parmesan cheese gradually as it melts into the sauce. This helps create a smooth texture.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and delight in this creamy, cheesy dish with confidence!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz twisted pasta (corkscrew or fusilli)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation and around 20 minutes of cooking, so you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in your twisted pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). After it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for around 1 minute, being careful not to let the garlic brown too much. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken a bit.
4. Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, mixing until it’s fully melted and the sauce is pleasant and creamy. If you enjoy a little heat, this is the time to add those optional crushed red pepper flakes!
5. Combine the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing it to coat the pasta evenly with that delicious creamy goodness.
6. Melt the Mozzarella:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and give it a gentle stir unless you want that melty cheese to form strings when you serve – yum!
7. Add the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the cheesy pasta. Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your dish for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, comforting meal!
Indulge in your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta – a wonderful treat for any occasion! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk works well, although it will add a slight coconut flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to help restore the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider adding some spinach or other vegetables for extra nutrition.
