There’s something about a dish of hot, cheesy pasta that brings pure comfort. Add to that a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and juicy, golden seared chicken, and you’ve got a dinner that rivals any restaurant plate. This Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a crave-worthy, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights but fancy enough for guests.

The twisted pasta is ideal for catching every bit of that creamy, savory sauce, and when combined with melted cheeses and seasoned chicken, it creates a dish that feels indulgent yet totally doable at home. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for the family or a dish to impress a table full of hungry friends, this recipe hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe brings together so many things people love: creamy sauce, tender pasta, juicy chicken, and loads of cheese. It’s a one-pan dream that delivers flavor in every bite. The garlic Parmesan sauce is buttery and smooth, perfectly coating the pasta while still allowing the chicken’s flavor to shine through.

It’s also a very forgiving and flexible meal. Don’t have twisted pasta? Penne or rotini work just fine. Want to add broccoli or spinach? Go for it. It’s the kind of recipe that allows room for creativity while being totally comforting.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

The beauty of this dish is that it works best with short, ridged pasta. Twisted pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even gemelli are great at grabbing onto the sauce. These shapes help hold the creamy garlic Parmesan mixture in every crevice, delivering flavor with each forkful. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti or linguine, which tend to get overwhelmed by the thick sauce. Short, hearty shapes are your best friend here.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Every element of this dish plays a role in making it incredibly rich and satisfying. Choosing the right ingredients will make all the difference in flavor and texture. While this recipe is comforting and cozy, it also uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.

Twisted pasta: Use rotini, fusilli, or gemelli for maximum sauce cling.
Chicken breast: Boneless and skinless works best; slice it thin for quick, even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds that aromatic foundation.
Butter: Used for sautéing and building the rich sauce base.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce ultra-creamy and indulgent.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is key to getting that nutty, melty finish.
Mozzarella cheese: Gives you that cheesy pull and gooey texture.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing the dish.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
Italian seasoning: Brings in a nice blend of herbs that complements the sauce beautifully.

Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken 2

How To Make the Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your sliced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Follow that with the mozzarella, allowing it to melt into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy consistency.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook your twisted pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and reserve a bit of the pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to coat every twist and turn with that luscious cheese sauce. If it seems too thick, splash in a little reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Bring Back the Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the pasta. Let it warm through for a couple of minutes, then give everything a final stir before serving.

Serving and Storing This Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This hearty dish easily feeds four to five people, making it a fantastic choice for families or small gatherings. Serve it hot straight from the skillet for the best gooey cheese pull and tender pasta texture. It pairs perfectly with a crisp salad or some toasted garlic bread to soak up the leftover sauce.

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s that good), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess.

What to Serve With Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

A Crisp Caesar Salad

The crunch of romaine, shaved Parmesan, and a creamy dressing balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Garlic Bread

Buttery, golden garlic bread is perfect for scooping up that extra cheesy sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple veggie side like steamed broccoli adds freshness and color without overpowering the dish.

Roasted Asparagus

Its slightly charred and nutty flavor pairs well with the creamy Parmesan.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

These bring a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

This refreshing salad adds a cool, crisp contrast that lightens the meal.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

If you’re feeling adventurous, the tangy sweetness of balsamic Brussels sprouts is a standout against the savory cheese.

A Glass of White Wine

If you like wine with dinner, go for a chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to complement the creamy sauce.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re a fan of indulgent pasta dishes like this Cheesy Twisted Pasta with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll definitely want to check out these other reader favorites from Mia Plates:

Creamy Beef and Shells for a cozy, weeknight comfort meal.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta if you’re short on time but want bold flavor.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a rich twist on a classic.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you’re craving something hearty and cheesy.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for easy cleanup and big flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime you’re craving cheesy comfort.

And don’t forget to drop a comment below if you made it. Did you use mozzarella only or sneak in some gouda? Did you toss in spinach or keep it classic? I love hearing how you make it your own.

Explore more easy, creamy, and delicious recipes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next dinner favorite!