Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Imagine twirling your fork around a plate piled high with perfectly cooked pasta, each strand coated in a luscious, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, studded with tender pieces of flavorful chicken. This **cheesy twisted pasta with creamy garlic parmesan chicken** is comfort food elevated to a whole new level of deliciousness.

This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, forks clashing in a joyful race to get the last bite. Get ready to dive into a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more!

Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

• It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat.
• The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is rich, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.
• The combination of chicken and pasta creates a satisfying and balanced meal.
• The dish is visually stunning, making it a showstopper for any occasion.

Ingredients for Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Twisted Pasta (Fusilli or Rotini) This pasta shape is ideal for capturing all that delicious creamy sauce in its nooks and crannies. You can use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Chicken Breast Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best as they cook quickly and evenly. Ensure the chicken is of good quality for the best flavor.

Heavy Cream The base of our luscious sauce. It provides richness and body. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick.

Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated parmesan cheese is key for that authentic, nutty, and salty flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as well.

Garlic Fresh garlic is a must! It adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the sauce. Mince it finely for even distribution.

Chicken Broth Adds depth of flavor and moisture to the sauce. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish.

Butter Adds richness and helps create a smooth, velvety sauce. You can use unsalted or salted butter, adjusting the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.

Olive Oil Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic. Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity flavor to the dish.

Italian Seasoning A blend of dried herbs that adds a touch of warmth and complexity to the sauce.

Salt and Black Pepper To taste. Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce, enhancing all the other flavors.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Adds a cheesy, gooey layer on top.

Fresh Parsley For garnish, adds a pop of color and freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until fully cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Transfer to plates and serve immediately for the perfect satisfying dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken to golden perfection. Then, while the pasta dances in boiling water, whip up that creamy, dreamy sauce. Combining everything at the end ensures each component is at its prime, resulting in a symphony of flavors and textures.

Add Your Touch

Want to get creative? Swap the chicken for turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile. Experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella or provolone alongside the parmesan. A dash of red pepper flakes can also add a little kick if you’re feeling adventurous.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover cheesy twisted pasta with creamy garlic parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to keep it moist and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Here are some tips for becoming a Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken master:

• To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure to sear it over high heat quickly, locking in those delicious juices.

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is the key to a delightful bite that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

• Freshly grated parmesan cheese makes a world of difference, adding a nutty and rich flavor you just can’t get from the pre-shredded stuff.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

The first time I made this, my neighbor declared it “the best pasta ever,” which, let me tell you, is high praise from a self-proclaimed pasta connoisseur!

Conclusion for Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken :

This Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food – a symphony of textures and flavors that’s surprisingly easy to make. The creamy, garlic-infused parmesan sauce coats every strand of pasta and tender piece of chicken for an unforgettable culinary experience. Quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, it’s a dish that will become a regular on your dinner rotation. Get ready for rave reviews!

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FAQs :

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Absolutely! While the twisted pasta shape catches the creamy sauce beautifully, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even rotini. The key is to choose a pasta shape with plenty of nooks and crannies to hold onto that luscious parmesan chicken and cheese sauce. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente according to the package directions to maintain a pleasant texture against the rich sauce. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite pairing!

What kind of chicken works best in this Cheesy Twisted Pasta dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe because they’re lean and cook quickly and evenly. However, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs tend to take a bit longer. If you have leftover cooked chicken, that’s an even faster shortcut! Just shred or cube it and add it to the sauce.

How can I make this Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken spicier?

If you’re looking to add a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy parmesan chicken sauce will do the trick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference. You could also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end or even use a spicy blend of cheese in the dish. Another fun option is to sprinkle some chili garlic sauce over the finished dish!

What are some good side dishes to serve with this Cheesy Twisted Pasta?

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans also pair well. For a heartier meal, consider serving some garlic bread or crusty rolls alongside to soak up every last bit of that delicious creamy parmesan chicken sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combinations!