Pin it
This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of three cheeses creates an irresistibly silky sauce that clings to every twist of pasta, while tender chicken adds satisfying protein.
I first created this recipe when my sister and her family showed up unexpectedly for dinner. With just pantry staples and some chicken, this dish came together so quickly that they thought I'd been cooking all day. Now it's requested at every family gathering.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and take on the Italian seasonings beautifully
- Twisted pasta: like rotini or fusilli captures maximum sauce in every bite
- Fresh garlic cloves: deliver aromatic flavor that powdered versions simply cannot match
- Heavy cream: forms the luxurious base of the sauce without splitting when heated
- Parmesan cheese: adds complex umami notes and helps thicken the sauce naturally
- Cream cheese: contributes exceptional creaminess and helps create a velvety smooth texture
- Mozzarella: brings that signature stretchy cheese pull that makes every bite satisfying
- Reserved pasta water: contains starch that helps bind the sauce to the pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a vigorous boil. Add your twisted pasta and cook until al dente which typically takes 8 to 10 minutes but check your package instructions. Before draining remember to reserve about half a cup of the starchy cooking water this is crucial for adjusting your sauce later. Drain the pasta but do not rinse it as the starch helps the sauce adhere.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken strips thoroughly on all sides with salt black pepper and Italian seasoning ensuring even coverage. Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer giving each piece space to properly brown. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes turning occasionally until the exterior develops a golden crust and the internal temperature reaches 74°C. Transfer to a clean plate to rest which allows juices to redistribute.
- Create the Flavor Base:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet retaining all those flavorful chicken bits. Once the butter melts completely add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes stirring constantly to prevent garlic from burning which would introduce bitterness. The garlic should become fragrant and just slightly golden at the edges.
- Develop the Sauce:
- Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom. These caramelized pieces contain concentrated flavor. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes which reduces the liquid and intensifies the taste. Lower the heat before adding the Parmesan in small batches whisking continuously to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping. Incorporate softened cream cheese in small pieces working each one into the sauce until completely smooth. Finally add the mozzarella stirring until the sauce becomes glossy and velvety.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices to the pan which adds deeper flavor to the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss thoroughly ensuring every piece gets evenly coated. Allow everything to simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes which helps the pasta absorb some sauce flavors. If the sauce seems too thick gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Pin it
Parmesan cheese is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered its transformative power years ago when my daughter refused to eat anything creamy. Something about the savory depth of real Parmesan completely won her over and this pasta became her gateway to trying other creamy dishes. Always opt for a wedge you grate yourself the difference in flavor and melting quality is remarkable.
Make Ahead and Storage
This pasta dish stays delicious for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce will thicken considerably when chilled so when reheating add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently over medium low heat. Stir frequently to prevent scorching. For best results avoid freezing as the cream sauce can separate and become grainy when thawed.
Customization Options
Transform this versatile dish to suit your preferences or pantry situation. Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp or Italian sausage for a different protein profile. Add vegetables like mushrooms sautéed with the garlic baby spinach stirred in just before serving or roasted cherry tomatoes on top. For a lighter version substitute half and half for heavy cream though the sauce won't be quite as rich. In a pinch dried herbs can replace fresh just use about one third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Pin it
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta works beautifully alongside a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil to cut through the richness. Garlic bread makes an excellent companion for soaking up every last bit of the magnificent sauce. For a complete Italian inspired meal add antipasto skewers as a starter. When entertaining serve this pasta family style in a large shallow bowl topped with additional parmesan shavings fresh parsley and cracked black pepper which creates a stunning presentation that encourages sharing.
The Secret to Silky Sauce
The combination of three different cheeses creates the extraordinary texture in this sauce. Parmesan provides saltiness and depth cream cheese contributes body and stability while mozzarella adds that wonderful stretch. The gradual incorporation of each cheese prevents graininess while reserved pasta water contains starch that helps emulsify everything into silky perfection. Remember that freshly grated cheese melts infinitely better than pre packaged varieties which often contain anti caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute the chicken in this dish?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like tofu or mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Twisted pasta like rotini or fusilli is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but penne or fettuccine also work well.
- → How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?
Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency after mixing. Add gradually until you achieve your desired texture.
- → What cheese alternatives can I use?
You can replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or use a mix of other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for variation.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead and mix them before serving. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, or fresh basil for added layers of flavor and nutrition.