Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta solves the what’s-for-dinner dilemma in just half an hour. Juicy seared chicken gets draped in a luscious sauce packed with garlic and plenty of fresh parmesan, while spiraled pasta soaks up every flavorful drop. This is a family favorite for nights when comfort and ease both matter.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs: Choose good quality free-range chicken for best flavor and texture
• Twisted pasta such as rotini fusilli or cavatappi: These shapes hold the cheesy sauce in every groove
• Butter: Adds creamy richness Use real unsalted butter for better control of saltiness
• Olive oil: Use a fruity extra virgin olive oil for depth in searing and finishing
• Fresh garlic: Cloves grated or finely minced make the sauce aromatic Choose plump garlic heads free of green shoots
• Chicken broth: Use homemade or low-sodium store-bought for extra savory flavor
• Heavy cream: This is what gives the sauce its silky finish Avoid half and half for real richness
• Grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts smoother and delivers bold flavor Pre-shredded is fine in a pinch just check for good quality
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning and balance Use flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the whole dish and brings freshness Choose flat leaf for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and season chicken:

Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper Press seasoning in so the pieces are evenly coated This locks in moisture and flavor

Sear chicken:

In a large skillet over medium high heat warm olive oil and one tablespoon butter until shimmering Lay chicken pieces in without crowding Sear five to six minutes per side until crust is golden and internal temperature reads one hundred sixty five degrees Remove to a plate and let rest to keep them juicy

Sauté garlic:

With the pan still hot reduce heat to medium Add remaining butter and swirl until melted Stir in minced garlic and cook while stirring for thirty seconds until fragrant but not browned The garlic should become aromatic and soft

Build sauce:

Pour in chicken broth Use a wooden spoon to scrape up browned bits from the pan base These bits give major flavor Blend in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer Cook three to four minutes until slightly thickened Gradually whisk in parmesan cheese until completely smooth and melted Keep stirring so nothing sticks or clumps Taste for seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed

Cook pasta:

While sauce simmers bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add twisted pasta and cook until al dente usually eight to ten minutes Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining as you may need it for the final sauce texture

Combine:

Slice cooked chicken against the grain for tenderness Return slices to skillet with the creamy sauce Add drained pasta and toss everything so each piece is coated If the sauce is too thick stir in some reserved pasta water a bit at a time

Garnish and serve:

Sprinkle chopped parsley generously over the skillet Serve the dish hot so the cheese stays soft and melty

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Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge Avoid freezing since the creamy sauce can separate when reheated For best results reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of extra cream or milk to revive the sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or swap with cooked turkey if needed No chicken broth on hand use vegetable or a bit of pasta water and ramp up the seasoning For a lighter version substitute half the cream with whole milk and just add a touch more cheese

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or sautéed asparagus on the side Warm crusty bread will not go to waste as everyone will want to mop up every bit of the creamy sauce If you like a touch of heat sprinkle with red pepper flakes or try a squeeze of fresh lemon to brighten things up

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Cultural and Historical Context

Cheesy chicken pastas like this are staples in many American kitchens inspired by Italian comfort food classics Alfredo and garlic cream sauces have become beloved across families for their heartiness and pure sense of indulgence I started making this version after a trip to Rome where I fell in love with simple creamy pastas and brought the idea home to my weeknight dinner table

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Twisted shapes like rotini, fusilli, or cavatappi are ideal since their spirals hold onto the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce well.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs offer richer flavor and remain juicy. Just ensure to cook them until fully done before slicing.

→ What's the secret to a silky, lump-free sauce?

Gradually whisk the Parmesan cheese into the hot cream sauce off the heat, which helps melt the cheese smoothly without clumping.

→ How do I adjust the sauce consistency?

Use reserved pasta water, adding little by little, until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness and coats the pasta perfectly.

→ What can I serve alongside this pasta?

Fresh green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments for balance and texture.