Amazing Cheesy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta
Delightful Twists of Flavor
There’s something magical about the combination of cheesy goodness and garlic in this Cheesy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta. Growing up in Orlando, surrounded by vibrant culture and delicious food, I learned early on that sharing recipes is about love and connection. Inspired by those cherished moments in my kitchen, this dish brings together all the comforting elements I adore: tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly twisted pasta. It’s an experience that wraps around you like a warm hug, inviting you to savor each bite while creating joyful memories.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Italian
- Best Season: Year-round
What Makes This Dish Shine
- Irresistible Creaminess: The luscious blend of heavy cream, whole milk, and cheeses creates a velvety sauce that clings to every twist of pasta, making it the ultimate comfort food.
- Flavor Explosion: With an infusion of garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of red pepper flakes, this dish radiates flavors that awaken your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
- Quick and Simple: Perfect for busy weeknights! This pasta comes together in just 45 minutes while delivering a wholesome meal the entire family will enjoy.
- Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this recipe ensures everyone leaves the table happy.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pasta Magic
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5-2 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for chicken)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound (450g) twisted pasta (cavatappi, campanelle, or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta water, optional)
- 2 teaspoons salt (for pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (for sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Ingredient Insights to Elevate Flavor
- Chicken Breasts: For juiciness, opt for fresh over frozen. You can also use skin-on chicken for an added richness.
- Twisted Pasta: Any pasta shape will work, but twisted or spiral shapes hold the sauce beautifully, allowing for a delightful texture.
- Garlic Variants: For a more robust garlic flavor, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw. It adds a sweet, caramelized note to your sauce.
- Cheeses: When grating Parmesan, opt for fresh blocks rather than pre-grated for a more intense flavor.
Step-by-Step to Deliciousness
- Prepare & Cook Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry; butterfly or pound to ½-inch thickness. Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Transfer chicken to a cutting board, tent with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice into bite-sized pieces; set aside.
- Cook Pasta: Fill a large pot with 4-6 quarts of water. Add 2 tsp salt and optional 1 tbsp olive oil; bring to a rolling boil. Add 1 lb twisted pasta; cook per package directions until al dente. Reserve 1-1½ cups starchy pasta water. Drain pasta, do not rinse; set aside.
- Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet (do not clean), melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in ¼ cup flour; whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a light golden roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups warmed whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream until smooth and slightly thickened. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in ½ tsp Italian seasoning and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup Parmesan and ½ cup mozzarella until melted and smooth. If too thick, add reserved pasta water ¼ cup at a time until desired consistency.
- Assemble & Serve: Add sliced chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until fully coated and combined. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Pro Pointers for Best Results
- Cook Chicken Like a Pro: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a golden sear; it locks in flavor.
- Pasta Perfection: Remember to add salt to your pasta water—it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself!
- Sauce Consistency: Don’t panic if your sauce is too thick—just add a splash of reserved pasta water for that perfect creamy texture.
- Season Gradually: Always taste as you go! Adjust seasonings incrementally to achieve your desired flavor balance.
Exciting Variations to Try
- Vegan Delight: Swap chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use plant-based milk and cashew cream, and replace cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for a fiery version that will tingle your taste buds.
- Regional Twist: Substitute Italian seasoning with a mix of smoked paprika and cumin for a Southwestern twist, giving it a new depth of flavor.
- Mild & Creamy: If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the red pepper and opt for less garlic; this results in a smooth, kid-friendly dish.
Pairing Suggestions for a Full Experience
- Refreshing Beverage: Complement this dish with a chilled lemonade or a robust sparkling water garnished with lemon slices.
- Perfect Side Dish: A simple Caesar salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully, enhancing the meal’s comfort and flavor.
- Indulgent Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse for a touch of decadence.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Strategies
- Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken and sauce the night before; reheat when ready to toss with freshly cooked pasta.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for the best quality.
- Freezing: This recipe freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, allowing you to enjoy creamy pasta goodness any time.
- Reheating Tips: Slowly reheat on the stovetop while adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Serving Ideas for a Beautiful Presentation
- Plating: Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and bite-sized pieces beautifully.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a final grating of Parmesan provide an inviting finish that cheers up any table.
- Cozy Vibes: Create a warm atmosphere by dimming the lights and serving with fragrant candles for a delightful dining experience.
Kitchen Tricks You’ll Appreciate
- Quick Garlic Mince: Use a garlic press for speedy mincing, ensuring that garlic flavor is evenly distributed in your sauce.
- Cheese Grating Efficiency: Use a box grater for faster results; the coarser shred creates better melting.
- Pasta Timing: Coordinate your pasta cooking time with sauce preparation; they should finish around the same time for optimal freshness.
- One-Pan Wonder: Embrace making your sauce in the same skillet as your chicken for enhanced flavor from the fond left behind.
Smart Storage and Reheating Techniques
- Fridge Storage: In the fridge, store your pasta in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
- Reheat with Care: Microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently; alternatively, reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a tablespoon or two of milk to retain creaminess.
Your Questions Answered
1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in Gouda or Fontina for a unique twist on flavor and texture.
2. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free? Yes! Substitute dairy products with almond milk and cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
3. What do I do if my sauce is too thick? Just stir in reserved pasta water—add it slowly until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. How do I make this dish ahead of time? Cook and store the chicken and sauce separately and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
5. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! Package individual portions in airtight containers, making it easy to enjoy this creamy pasta later.
6. How long will leftovers last in the fridge? Leftovers will stay fresh for about 3 days. Enjoy them by reheating gently on the stovetop.
7. What types of pasta can I use? Twisted pasta shapes work best, but you can experiment with your favorite varieties for a fun twist.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 780
- Protein: 45g
- Carbs: 65g
- Fat: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
(Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
A Warm Reflection from the Kitchen
Embracing the vibrant flavors of culture and family, this Cheesy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta brings back memories of love shared around the dinner table. Each ingredient tells a story, reminiscent of joyful laughter and cherished moments, like a culinary hug that warms the soul. In every bite, celebrate togetherness and the delicious connection forged through cooking.
Ending on a Delicious Note
Ready to create a dish that dazzles? This Cheesy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta invites you to gather your loved ones and dive into a bowl of indulgence. Make the recipe, share your culinary creations on Pinterest, and don’t forget to invite friends over to join the fun. Let the love of cooking bring warmth to your table!
Cheesy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist of flavors with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly twisted pasta, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5–2 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for chicken)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound (450g) twisted pasta (cavatappi, campanelle, or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta water, optional)
- 2 teaspoons salt (for pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (for sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry; butterfly or pound to ½-inch thickness. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Transfer chicken to a cutting board, tent with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice into bite-sized pieces; set aside.
- Fill a large pot with water, add salt and optional olive oil; bring to boil. Add twisted pasta; cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1-1½ cups starchy pasta water. Drain pasta, do not rinse; set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic; sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour; whisk to form roux. Gradually add warmed whole milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (optional). Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat and stir in cheeses until melted.
- Add sliced chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until fully coated and combined. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra cheese.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 780
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
