There’s something magical about a plate of creamy pasta that melts away the stress of a long day. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is comfort food at its finest — tender, juicy chicken wrapped in a silky, garlicky sauce with layers of Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Every bite is rich, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned.
It’s the kind of dish that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together easily at home. The creaminess from the cheese blend and the bite of the twisted pasta make it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just want to treat yourself, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to the table.
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) rotini or fusilli pasta
1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
¾ cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup (115 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup (120 ml) reserved pasta cooking water
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Sear the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with a bit of salt and pepper. Sear for about 5–6 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
Build the sauce base: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant — be careful not to brown it.
Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir constantly over medium-low heat until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture turns smooth. Gradually whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce becomes rich, glossy, and thick.
Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. Gently toss to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Serve immediately: Spoon the pasta into bowls while hot. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or fresh chopped parsley for garnish. Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad for the perfect meal.
Tips for perfection
🍝 Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
🧄 Don’t rush the garlic; sauté it gently to release flavor without burning.
🧀 Reserve that pasta water — it’s full of starch and helps create the perfect creamy coating.
🔥 If you enjoy a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
🌿 For a lighter touch, you can replace half the cream with milk or use reduced-fat cream cheese.
Variations
You can play around with the cheese or even the protein in this dish. Try swapping the chicken for shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Penne, farfalle, or even tagliatelle also work beautifully with the sauce. For extra color and nutrition, toss in baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli before serving.
Serving ideas
This pasta is indulgent on its own, but it pairs perfectly with warm garlic bread 🥖, roasted vegetables 🥦, or a fresh Caesar salad 🥗. If you want to make it feel extra special, serve with a sprinkle of crushed black pepper on top and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Storage and reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. The sauce will loosen up and return to its creamy texture.
Why this dish stands out
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines everything we crave in comfort food — creaminess, flavor, and balance. The garlic enhances the cheese, the chicken adds substance, and the twisted pasta catches every bit of the sauce. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining.
One bite, and you’ll understand why this dish has become a favorite in kitchens everywhere. It’s cheesy, garlicky, comforting, and absolutely irresistible.