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If you are searching for a dish that brings together the irresistible comfort of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delightfully cheesy pasta, then the armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta is about to become your new favorite meal. This recipe offers a perfect balance of rich garlic-parmesan flavors and luscious textures that make every bite feel like a warm hug from the inside. The combination of perfectly seared chicken breasts smothered in a decadent, cheesy sauce hugging twisted pasta shapes delivers a satisfying experience that’s both fancy enough for guests and cozy enough for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you make armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta, it will be a requested classic on your table again and again.

armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet crucial, working in harmony to create layers of flavor, fabulous creaminess, and beautiful color. From the smoky spices seasoning the chicken to the blend of parmesan and mozzarella cheeses that melt into the sauce, each element plays a vital role in transforming basic pantry staples into an extraordinary dish.

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and easy to cook evenly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a mild fruity richness for searing the chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky aroma without overpowering.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky warmth.
0.5 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a mild sweetness and depth.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning layers.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for searing): Helps brown the chicken golden and adds richness.
12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta: Twisted shapes that hold onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
Water and salt for boiling pasta: Basics that bring pasta to perfect al dente texture.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for the creamy sauce’s roux.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic intensifies the sauce’s flavor.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce into a smooth, velvety consistency.
2 cups heavy cream: Creates the luscious creaminess that coats every pasta twist.
0.75 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty undertones and melts perfectly.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers silken stretch and gooey cheesiness.
0.5 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: Infuses a fragrant Italian flair.
0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
Freshly chopped parsley for garnish: Adds brightness and a splash of green freshness.

How to Make armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry, which is key for a beautiful crust. Then, season them evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden and perfectly cooked through. Set your chicken aside to rest; this keeps it juicy and ready to slice later.

Step 2: Cook the Twisted Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—the salt is important to infuse the pasta with flavor. Add the rotini or fusilli and cook until al dente, meaning tender but with a slight bite. Before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid is your secret weapon to adjust the sauce’s consistency later and ensure the perfect creamy texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just for 30 seconds to release its fragrant sweetness without turning it bitter. Next, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux—this will thicken your sauce wonderfully. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, then let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens into silky heaven.

Step 4: Add Cheeses and Seasonings

Stir the parmesan and mozzarella cheeses into the sauce, watching them melt seamlessly. Then sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This combination creates a rich, flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to every twist of pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat every piece with the cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your ideal creamy consistency. This step ensures the sauce isn’t just thick but beautifully glossy and luscious.

Step 6: Slice and Arrange the Chicken

Slice your rested chicken breasts into juicy strips and arrange them over the bed of cheesy twisted pasta. This creates a delightful contrast between the creamy pasta and the smoky, tender chicken—a match made in culinary heaven.

Step 7: Final Touches

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for color and a fresh herbal note. If you want, add a little extra parmesan cheese or a pinch more red pepper flakes to personalize the dish further. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting vibes pouring from this incredible platescape.

How to Serve armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a must for brightness and texture, but you can also scatter toasted pine nuts or add a squeeze of lemon for a hint of freshness. A little extra grated parmesan on top adds an inviting salty punch that makes every mouthful even more special.

Side Dishes

This dish is so rich and filling that a simple fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the creaminess. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts also make perfect companions, adding earthiness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this armeSan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta in individual shallow bowls to showcase the cheese pull and garnishes, or in a large family-style dish at the center of the table for sharing. You can even bake the pasta briefly under a broiler with extra mozzarella for a bubbly, golden crust if you want to impress your guests even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier for a next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by placing the pasta and chicken in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess as it warms. Avoid microwaving too aggressively to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes for the armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini or fusilli work best because their twists hold onto the sauce well, penne, farfalle, or even shells would be delicious alternatives.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta. Make sure your other ingredients like seasoning mixes are gluten-free too.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

For a lighter version, you might try half-and-half or a mixture of cream and milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy, so the texture will be a bit different.

What’s the best way to cook chicken to keep it juicy?

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning and allowing it to rest after cooking are key. Searing over medium-high heat gives it a tasty crust while locking in juices.

Can I add vegetables to the armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta?

Definitely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms would complement the flavors without overpowering the creamy sauce and chicken. Just toss them in toward the end when mixing the sauce and pasta.

Final Thoughts

Making armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta is like inviting a little joy and comfort into your kitchen. This recipe has everything that makes food feel like a warm, satisfying hug—rich flavors, creamy textures, and that unbeatable cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple. So grab those ingredients and treat yourself to a plate of pure deliciousness—you won’t regret it!

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armesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Cheesy Twisted Pasta recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken breasts with a rich and velvety garlic parmesan sauce tossed with cheesy rotini pasta. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish balances smoky spices on the chicken with creamy, melted mozzarella and parmesan, enhanced by aromatic garlic and Italian herbs. It’s easy to prepare and will delight the whole family with its delicious flavors.

Instructions

Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini or fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the garlic butter roux: In the same skillet used for chicken, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Make the creamy sauce: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the melted butter and garlic. Whisk continuously to combine and cook the roux for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in 2 cups heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the cheeses and seasonings: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheeses have melted fully and the sauce is smooth.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to adjust the sauce to your desired consistency.
Slice and serve the chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Arrange the chicken on top of the cheesy pasta.
Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, extra parmesan, and additional red pepper flakes on top for flavor and presentation. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Be sure to not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best cheesy flavor and smooth melting.
Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat.
This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Searing, Boiling, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 620 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 38 g
Saturated Fat: 22 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 140 mg

Keywords: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Cheesy Twisted Pasta, Rotini Pasta Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner, Garlic Parmesan Sauce, Comfort Food