This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is one of those comfort meals that always wins hearts at my table. I still remember the first time I cooked it on a cozy Sunday evening—rain tapping on the window, and the aroma of garlic and melted cheese filling my kitchen. There’s something about this dish that brings warmth, joy, and satisfaction with every bite. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
What makes this recipe truly special is the rich, velvety sauce that blankets the juicy, pan-seared chicken. Combined with cheesy twisted pasta, the textures and tastes come together beautifully—creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and absolutely indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just fill you up but makes you feel taken care of.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes for comfort food lovers. The garlic parmesan sauce is luscious without being overpowering, and it clings perfectly to every spiral of the pasta. The chicken is tender and flavorful, with a golden sear that locks in all the juices. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is a surefire hit.
Versatile
Another reason I love this dish is its flexibility. You can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, or even swap out the chicken for chicken ham if that’s what you have on hand. The sauce works well with other pasta shapes too, like penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition.
Affordable
All the ingredients in this dish are kitchen staples or budget-friendly finds at any local market. No fancy tools or expensive cheeses—just honest ingredients that deliver rich results. You can make this meal without breaking the bank, and it tastes like something from a cozy bistro.
Ingredients for the Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious recipe to life:
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Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
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Olive oil
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Fresh garlic, minced
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Heavy cream
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Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
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Cheddar cheese
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Chicken broth
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Salt and black pepper
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Italian seasoning
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Turkey bacon (instead of regular bacon)
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Twisted pasta (like rotini or fusilli)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
This dish is packed with flavor yet surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or leisurely weekend, this recipe comes together smoothly. Each step is crafted to ensure that every bite is tender, cheesy, and full of creamy garlic goodness. The twisted pasta catches every drop of sauce, and the chicken is pan-seared to golden perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
1. Prepare the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli), and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, then set it aside. While the pasta is cooking, move on to preparing the chicken and sauce.
2. Cook the turkey bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add chopped turkey bacon and cook until crisp. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with a paper towel.
3. Sear the chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In the same skillet used for the bacon, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
4. Sauté the garlic
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not burnt. The aroma should fill your kitchen.
5. Build the creamy sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Stir continuously for another 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
6. Add the cheeses
Sprinkle in the freshly grated parmesan and cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted. The sauce should now be smooth, creamy, and thick enough to coat a spoon. Season to taste with a pinch more salt and black pepper if needed.
7. Combine everything
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Fold in the crisp turkey bacon. Slice the seared chicken breasts and lay them over the pasta mixture or mix them in if you prefer. Warm everything together for 1–2 minutes on low heat.
8. Garnish and serve
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad if desired.
Quick and Easy
One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it all comes together. The pasta and chicken cook simultaneously, and the sauce builds in the same pan for easy cleanup. From start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in about 35 minutes.
Customizable
Feel free to personalize this dish to suit your preferences. Swap cheddar with mozzarella or provolone, or add steamed broccoli or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor. The base is simple, making it easy to make it your own.
Popular with Many People
Every time I serve this dish—whether to guests or just for the family—everyone asks for seconds. It has a rich, satisfying flavor profile that appeals to kids, adults, and anyone who loves cheesy pasta and juicy chicken. It’s a reliable favorite for potlucks, gatherings, and cozy nights in.
PrintCreamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal. Tender, seasoned chicken is seared until golden, then paired with rich garlic parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked twisted pasta. Finished with crisp turkey bacon and fresh parsley, this dish is creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 12 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Crisp the turkey bacon:
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped turkey bacon and cook until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. - Season and cook the chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear the chicken over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and cover loosely with foil. - Make the garlic cream sauce:
Reduce the heat slightly. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. - Add cream and cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add parmesan and cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly. - Combine and heat through:
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well coated. Slice the cooked chicken and either stir it into the pasta or layer it on top. Add the turkey bacon and gently mix. Warm everything through for 1–2 minutes. - Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.
Notes
For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter with the garlic.
Feel free to add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs – Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely substitute the twisted pasta with other shapes like penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure the pasta holds the sauce well and is cooked al dente.
Is it okay to use pre-grated parmesan cheese?
While pre-grated parmesan can be used, I always recommend grating it fresh. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and gives the sauce a richer, more authentic flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately from the chicken for the best texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy. Adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water can help thicken it.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Spinach, peas, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would all be excellent additions. Add them at the same time as the pasta to keep the process simple.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s very kid-friendly. The creamy, cheesy sauce is always a favorite with little ones, and the mild garlic flavor isn’t overwhelming.