Creamy Garlic Chicken Twisted Pasta: A Comforting One-Pan Delight
Dive into the indulgent comfort of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Twisted Pasta, a decadent yet approachable dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with twirly pasta enveloped in a velvety, garlic-infused cream sauce. The rich blend of Parmesan, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a luscious sauce that clings to every spiral of pasta, while a hint of Italian herbs and optional red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of warmth and flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a date night at home, or a satisfying weeknight meal, this one-pan wonder comes together in about 40 minutes, delivering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra cheese for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz (340 grams) rotini, fusilli, or other short pasta (like penne or farfalle)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (full-fat for the creamiest texture)
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 3/4 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (full-fat or reduced-fat)
- 1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed to adjust sauce consistency)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or dried oregano for extra flavor
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs or spatula for cooking chicken
- Wooden spoon or whisk for the sauce
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and sharp knife
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini or fusilli and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 3/4 cup of the starchy pasta water, which will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Drain the pasta and set it aside, tossing with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking if not using immediately. - Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breast slices dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season the chicken evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) for a touch of heat. In a large skillet, heat 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm. - Craft the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden—be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble softly for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. - Incorporate the Cheeses:
Lower the heat to medium-low to prevent the sauce from separating. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Add the softened cream cheese in small dollops, stirring until fully incorporated and the sauce becomes rich and creamy. Finally, sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella, stirring gently until it melts into a silky, cohesive sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt, pepper, or optional smoked paprika or oregano for extra depth. - Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken and its juices to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the sauce’s richness. - Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the creamy garlic chicken pasta to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and, if desired, an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flourish. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by warm bread or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
Prep and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Serving Suggestions
This creamy, garlicky pasta dish is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with sides and beverages to create a memorable dining experience:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad, steamed asparagus, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
- Bread: Offer garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Beverages: Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, a light rosé, or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
- Dessert: Finish the meal with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or a fruit tart to cleanse the palate after the rich flavors.
Tips for Success
- Pasta Choice: Rotini or fusilli are ideal because their spirals hold the creamy sauce beautifully, but penne, farfalle, or rigatoni work well too. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti, as it doesn’t pair as effectively with chunky chicken pieces.
- Chicken Prep: Slice the chicken breasts thinly and evenly to ensure quick, uniform cooking. For extra tenderness, pound the chicken to an even thickness before slicing.
- Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor, as pre-grated varieties may contain anti-caking agents that affect the sauce’s texture.
- Sauce Consistency: The reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce. Add it gradually to avoid making the sauce too thin.
- Make It Ahead: The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its smoothness.
Variations to Try
- Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or diced pancetta for a different twist, or use tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Twist: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a bolder kick.
- Herb Variations: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh basil or oregano, or add a pinch of dried thyme for a different herbaceous note.
- Lightened-Up Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly for a lighter sauce, though the texture may be less rich.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Twisted Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory depth of garlic and herbs with the luxurious creaminess of a three-cheese sauce. The tender chicken and twirly pasta make every bite satisfying, while the one-pan method keeps cleanup to a minimum. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences—whether you want it spicy, veggie-packed, or extra cheesy—and it’s ready in under an hour, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Your family and guests will be begging for seconds!
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but it reheats well.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to avoid overheating.
- Freezing: The dish can be frozen for up to 1 month, but the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly, stirring in a bit of cream to revive the texture.
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Twisted Pasta is a heartwarming, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress with its rich sauce and tender chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this dish delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Try it today and elevate your pasta game to a whole new level!
