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Golden, juicy chicken coated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, paired with perfectly cooked cheesy twisted pasta – this is comfort food at its finest. The creamy sauce clings to every spiral of pasta, while the chicken bursts with herby, garlicky flavor. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for cozy dinners or even special occasions.
The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make. In under an hour, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Serve it to impress guests or enjoy it as a family favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Rich and Flavorful – Garlic and parmesan create a savory, creamy sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
- Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this cheesy, pasta-loaded dish.
- Easy to Make – A one-pan chicken recipe with simple ingredients you likely already have.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Weeknight dinner or date-night indulgence, it fits both.
- Pairs with Everything – From a light salad to crusty garlic bread, it’s versatile and satisfying.
What Type of Pasta Works Best for This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
While twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli) is perfect because it holds the creamy sauce in every curl, you can swap it with penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine for a different texture. If you love a little extra decadence, toss the cooked pasta with shredded parmesan before adding the chicken to make it extra cheesy and irresistible.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This dish is all about balance – creamy, savory, and comforting. Here’s why each ingredient matters:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Tender, juicy chicken is the star; thighs stay extra moist, while breasts give a leaner option.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the sauce with a rich, aromatic depth.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds that salty, nutty creaminess to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream – Creates the silky, rich base for the sauce.
- Butter – Gives the sauce a luxurious texture and enhances the garlic flavor.
- Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken for that golden, crispy crust.
- Chicken Broth – Balances the richness and deepens the flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with a fresh herby finish.
- Rotini or Fusilli Pasta – Twisted pasta holds the sauce perfectly in every bite.
- Mozzarella or Extra Parmesan (Optional) – For extra cheesiness if you love it gooey.
How To Make the Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, then sear chicken on medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer gently before adding parmesan cheese to melt into the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook rotini or fusilli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Let it simmer for a few minutes to soak up the flavors. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley (and extra parmesan if you like it cheesy).
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Plate the pasta first, top with the creamy garlic parmesan chicken, and drizzle extra sauce for that luscious finish.
Serving and Storing This Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This rich and hearty dish serves 4 to 5 people, making it perfect for family dinners or a small gathering. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture, as the sauce thickens while it cools. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the creaminess.
What to Serve With Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
1. Garlic Butter Breadsticks
Perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce.
2. Crisp Green Salad
A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
3. Roasted Asparagus
Lightly seasoned with olive oil and sea salt, it adds a fresh crunch.
4. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Double up the comfort with this cozy, cheesy soup.
5. Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
If you’re hosting, this makes for an indulgent pasta pairing.
6. Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Serve as a variety option for a dinner party with multiple chicken dishes.
7. Classic Caesar Salad
The crisp romaine and tangy dressing pair beautifully with the creamy pasta.
8. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For ultimate comfort, creamy potatoes are always a winner.
Want More Creamy Chicken and Pasta Ideas?
If you love this ultimate creamy garlic parmesan chicken, you’ll definitely enjoy these other rich and comforting dishes:
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – A creamy, sun-dried tomato twist.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna – Cheesy seafood goodness for pasta lovers.
- Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken – Crispy, cheesy, and irresistible.
- Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells – A vegetarian-friendly creamy pasta dish.
- Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Perfect as a starter or side.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or comfort food board so you can come back to it anytime.
And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you go extra cheesy? Try it with a different pasta shape? Drop your tips or questions in the comments—we’re all about helping each other cook smarter.
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Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts or 4 boneless thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or extra parmesan (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear chicken in butter and olive oil until golden; set aside.
- Sauté garlic in butter, add chicken broth and heavy cream, simmer and melt parmesan into sauce.
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; drain.
- Return chicken to skillet, coat with sauce, and simmer briefly.
- Toss pasta with sauce, top with chicken, parsley, and optional mozzarella.