Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

To make this creamy dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
12 oz twisted pasta (like rotini or fusilli)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp butter, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high temperature. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan, cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella. Mix continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 5: Combine: Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve: Top with chopped fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan before serving hot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use any twisted pasta such as rotini or fusilli, or even substitute with penne or bowtie pasta for a change in texture.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cream by substituting part of it with low-fat milk or a vegetable broth.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the creamy texture.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread is also an excellent addition for dipping!

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Store in an airtight container, and when ready to eat, thaw and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore moisture.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta is a comforting dish that’s sure to appeal to both kids and adults alike. It combines the delightful flavors of garlic, cream, and cheese, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings. With easy-to-follow steps and ingredients readily available, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy a plate of this creamy goodness today!

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