Name: Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 10 oz rotini or fusilli pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; ½ cup reserved pasta water

I can’t tell you how many times this Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken has saved my dinner plans. It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy enough for guests but comes together easily enough for a weeknight. I made it on a whim one evening when all I had was some chicken, rotini pasta, and a dream of something rich and comforting. The creamy, cheesy sauce clings to every twist of the pasta, and the chicken—juicy, golden, and dripping in garlic-parmesan goodness—turns it into a full-blown indulgence.

What really gets me about this recipe is how each component supports the next. The pasta holds the creamy sauce perfectly, the garlic adds a sharp kick that cuts through the richness, and the pan-seared chicken soaks up all those buttery juices. The result? A bite that’s cheesy, savory, tender, and just a little addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Comfort food, leveled up: It’s mac and cheese meets chicken Alfredo—but way better.
Restaurant-quality results at home: You’ll impress anyone who takes a bite, guaranteed.
Customizable: Change the cheese, add veggies, or swap in a different pasta.
Ready in under 45 minutes: Perfect for busy nights but doesn’t taste rushed.
Kid-approved, adult-loved: Creamy, cheesy, garlicky—what’s not to like?

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

While I usually reach for rotini or fusilli because those twists hold the creamy sauce so well, the truth is, almost any short pasta will do. Penne, cavatappi, or even elbow macaroni can work in a pinch. The key is to use a shape that captures that luscious garlic parmesan sauce in every curve and crevice.

Long noodles like fettuccine or linguine can still work, but they won’t hug the sauce quite the same way. If you’re after that creamy bite in every forkful, stick with the spirals or tubes—they just do the job better.

Options for Substitutions

Chicken: You can use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat. Grilled chicken strips or rotisserie chicken also work if you’re short on time.

Cheese: Parmesan is the classic choice, but you can mix in Romano, Asiago, or even a little mozzarella for extra creaminess and melt.

Cream: No heavy cream? Use half-and-half or whole milk thickened with a bit of cream cheese or flour.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can work in a pinch—just reduce the amount slightly.

Pasta: As mentioned, fusilli and rotini are great, but shells, penne, or even farfalle can pick up the sauce just as well.

Butter: If you want a lighter version, use olive oil instead of butter, though you’ll lose a little richness.

Add-ins: Feel free to throw in steamed broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.

Ingredients for Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These are the star of the dish. Sliced and seasoned, they soak up the garlic parmesan sauce beautifully and bring protein-packed substance to the meal.

Rotini or fusilli pasta – Their spiral shape traps all the cheesy, creamy sauce in the nooks and crannies, making every bite flavor-packed.

Fresh garlic – Garlic is the backbone of the sauce, adding a bold, aromatic layer that balances the richness of the cheese and cream.

Butter – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection and forms the base of the creamy sauce.

Heavy cream – Essential for creating a velvety texture and indulgent flavor in the sauce.

Grated parmesan cheese – The main cheesy element; it melts into the sauce, creating that perfect thick, savory finish.

Parsley – Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness, color, and a bit of earthiness to balance the richness.

Red pepper flakes – Optional, but recommended. They add a little heat and depth that cuts through the creaminess.

Salt and black pepper – These bring out all the flavors and help balance the richness of the dish.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through—about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the pan and let it rest.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rotini or fusilli pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add more butter if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant (don’t let it brown). Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

Once rested, slice the chicken into thick strips. The juices should stay locked in, and the sear on the outside will give every bite a flavorful crust.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Assemble

Add the drained pasta into the creamy sauce and stir well to coat every twist. Add chopped parsley and a bit more cheese if desired. Place the sliced chicken over the pasta, drizzle any remaining sauce over the top, and finish with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and parsley.

How Long to Cook Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 40–45 minutes:

Prep Time: 10–15 minutes (chopping, seasoning, boiling water)
Cooking the Chicken: 10–12 minutes (depends on thickness)
Cooking the Pasta: 8–10 minutes (while chicken cooks)
Making the Sauce & Assembling: 10–15 minutes

It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to serve on the weekend.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Pound your chicken evenly so it cooks consistently without drying out.
Use freshly grated parmesan—it melts smoother and gives a richer flavor than the pre-shredded kind.
Don’t overcook the garlic—just a quick sauté to release the aroma, or it’ll turn bitter.
Save that pasta water—it helps loosen and emulsify the sauce beautifully.
Let the chicken rest before slicing—this keeps it juicy and prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
Adjust the sauce consistency with more cream or pasta water if needed.
Taste as you go—seasoning in layers makes a huge difference.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the chicken: Dry chicken ruins the texture of the dish. Make sure it’s golden on the outside and just cooked through on the inside. Use a thermometer if needed—165°F is your target.
Using pre-shredded cheese: It won’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents. Always go for fresh grated parmesan.
Letting the garlic burn: Burnt garlic turns bitter and will overpower the sauce. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly when it hits the pan.
Skipping the pasta water: That starchy liquid is gold for adjusting sauce thickness and helping it cling to the pasta.
Not seasoning the pasta water: Bland pasta = bland bite. Salt the water generously—like the sea!
Slicing chicken too early: Letting it rest for a few minutes keeps it juicy and easier to slice cleanly.
Using low-fat cream: This can make the sauce grainy or thin. Stick with heavy cream or add a thickener.

What to Serve With Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread or Cheesy Pull-Apart Rolls

Perfect for soaking up all the leftover sauce on your plate.

Simple Arugula or Caesar Salad

The crisp greens balance out the richness of the pasta with a refreshing bite.

Steamed Broccoli or Roasted Veggies

A healthy contrast, and broccoli pairs especially well with parmesan.

A Glass of White Wine

Something light like a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio elevates the dish beautifully.

Lemon-Dressed Green Beans

Zesty, bright, and a natural match for creamy garlic flavors.

Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Fresh, cool, and adds a nice crunch alongside the warm, cheesy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms add umami and a meaty texture that blends perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Roasted Garlic Brussels Sprouts

The caramelized edges and nutty flavor are a great complement to the garlic parmesan base.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken keep surprisingly well—just follow these tips to maintain that creamy texture:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat gently: Add a splash of cream or milk before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. This brings the sauce back to life without drying it out.
Avoid freezing: The creamy sauce can separate and become grainy after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~680 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 540mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Serving Size: 1 generous bowl

(Note: These are estimates and may vary based on the exact brands and quantities used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Just slice or shred it and add it during the final step. It won’t have the same seared flavor, but it’s a great time-saver.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep components like the sauce and cooked pasta ahead, but for best texture, combine and reheat just before serving.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a bit longer, or stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water).

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a little reserved pasta water or splash of milk/cream until it loosens to your liking.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your cheese and cream are gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables directly into the pasta?

Yes—spinach, peas, or chopped broccoli can be added right into the sauce for a complete one-pan meal.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only mildly so from the red pepper flakes, and you can skip them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add some shredded cheese or a thickener to maintain richness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is everything comfort food should be—rich, flavorful, easy to make, and always a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just feed your family something delicious without breaking a sweat, this dish delivers every time. It combines crowd-pleasing ingredients into one silky, savory, and satisfying meal. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your weekly dinner rotation.