This dish is a winner! Creamy garlic parmesan chicken meets cheesy twisted pasta for a cozy meal. The sauce is smooth and rich, and it’s packed with flavor to delight your taste buds.
I love how easy it is to whip up this dinner! Just cook the chicken, mix in the sauce, and toss it with the pasta. It’s a great go-to for busy nights, and it’s sure to impress anyone at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is preferred for quick cooking. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor, or even use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free. Cream cheese can also work for a thicker consistency.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for strong flavor. If you don’t have that, pre-grated is okay. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor.
Pasta: Twisted pasta, like fusilli or rotini, holds sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta, or any other pasta shape you have on hand will work fine!
How Do You Make Sure Your Creamy Sauce is Smooth?
Creating a creamy sauce that’s smooth can be tricky but here’s how you can do it right:
- Start with medium heat when cooking the garlic, careful not to burn it. You want it fragrant, not bitter.
- When adding the cream, whisk constantly to help it combine evenly with the broth. This prevents clumping.
- Always add cheese gradually. Stir until each addition melts smoothly before adding more.
- If the sauce gets too thick, thin it with a little more chicken broth or pasta water.
Following these tips helps ensure a velvety finish to your creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Enjoy cooking!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Cheesy Twisted Pasta:
- 12 oz twisted pasta (such as fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, for pasta water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the pasta and about 20 minutes cooking the chicken and sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder so they are flavorful. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Gradually pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the pan for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Parmesan:
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Whisk everything together until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Let it all cook together for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Mix in Pasta and Cheeses:
Add the drained twisted pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to coat well with the sauce. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese until they are melted and everything is beautifully cheesy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a touch of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish if you like. Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken alongside the cheesy twisted pasta or plate them together with sauce poured over the top. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream or cashew cream works well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and combine with freshly cooked pasta for the best flavor!
