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Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Alfredo

Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Alfredo is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy pasta. It’s a meal that everyone in the family will love, and it’s easy enough to whip up any night of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines simple ingredients that come together to create a rich and satisfying meal. Plus, who can resist the combination of garlic, cheese, and pasta? It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Alfredo

Ingredients:

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
18 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli)
3 tbsp olive oil
6 tbsp butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
3/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup chicken broth
2 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup cream cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving a small cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and let the sauce gently simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Parmesan, cream cheese, and mozzarella. Stir until everything melts into a thick, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too heavy, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the cheesy garlic sauce. Let it cook together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.
Turn off the heat, garnish with parsley, and sprinkle on a little extra Parmesan before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Alfredo

Serve this tasty dish warm right from the skillet. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. Top with more grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish!

How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Alfredo

To store leftovers, place the pasta and chicken in an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or water to help loosen up the sauce if needed.

Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta Alfredo

Make sure to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente to avoid mushy texture when mixing with the sauce.
If you like it spicy, don’t skip the crushed red pepper flakes!
Feel free to add some veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.

Variation

You can customize this dish by using different types of pasta or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a vegetarian protein like tofu. Additionally, you can change the cheese based on your preference or what you have on hand.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers, but the texture may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

3. Can I use different cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or cheddar for a unique flavor.