Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that can be whipped up in less than an hour? Look no further! This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, and cheesy twisted pasta, this recipe combines flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart. Plus, it’s an all-in-one dish that is sure to please the whole family!
The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce clings to the twisted pasta, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta offers a myriad of reasons to fall in love with it. First and foremost, it is incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a gourmet-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken breasts are seared to perfection, locking in the juices, while the creamy sauce elevates the dish with its rich, garlicky flavor.
Moreover, the twisted pasta, such as cavatappi or fusilli, adds a playful texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. These pasta shapes are not only visually appealing but also ideal for holding onto that delicious sauce, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. The addition of spinach and cherry tomatoes not only enhances the nutritional profile of the meal but also adds vibrant colors that make the dish visually stunning.
Another fantastic aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or even a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor. It’s perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen or for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) make for a delightful lunch the next day.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Aside from the deliciousness of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, there are several compelling reasons to give this recipe a try. First, it’s a great option for a busy weeknight, allowing you to prepare a hearty meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of protein, carbs, and vegetables makes it a well-rounded meal that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing.
Additionally, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The creamy sauce is a favorite among children, while adults will appreciate the rich flavors and the ease of preparation. It’s a great way to introduce more greens into your family’s diet without them even noticing! The spinach adds a nutritional boost, and the cherry tomatoes provide a sweet burst of flavor, making this dish not just tasty but also wholesome.
This recipe also makes for an excellent entertaining option. If you have friends coming over, this dish can be easily doubled, ensuring that everyone leaves with full bellies and happy hearts. Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread, and you have a complete meal that will impress your guests.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
To make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces twisted pasta (cavatappi or fusilli)
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
In addition to the ingredients, here are some recommended utensils for recipe success:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Sharp knife for slicing chicken
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
With these ingredients and tools, you’ll be ready to create a delicious meal that will leave everyone wanting more!
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the twisted pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the creamy sauce.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, spinach, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Slice the seared chicken and place it on top of the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through, ensuring the spinach is wilted.
- Serve: To finish, garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta!
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While twisted pasta like cavatappi or fusilli works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and combine it with the pasta before adding the chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to eat.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of whole milk and cream. Keep in mind that the sauce might be less thick and rich.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor.
Conclusion
In summary, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures in one pot. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will not disappoint.
We hope you try out this delicious recipe and share your experiences with us! Don’t forget to comment below, share this article with your friends, or check out our other recipes for more amazing culinary creations. Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out our Pinterest page or explore our collection of dishes like Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Crock Pot Chicken and Rice.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 8 ounces Twisted pasta (cavatappi or fusilli)
- 1 cup Spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, spinach, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Slice the seared chicken and place it on top of the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy twisted pasta!
