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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta plated with fresh parsley garnish

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Restaurant-quality pasta dish featuring tender chicken and twisted pasta in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with 30g protein per serving.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts pound to even thickness
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 8 oz twisted pasta rotini or fusilli
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1 handful fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for pasta
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Gather all ingredients and prep everything first. Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs on both sides. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for pasta.
  2. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. When oil shimmers, add seasoned chicken breasts. Cook 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken to plate and tent with foil to rest.
  3. Add twisted pasta to boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  4. In same skillet with chicken drippings, reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to gentle simmer.
  5. Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Slice rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to sauce along with drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding pasta water if needed for perfect consistency.
  6. Serve immediately garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Don't burn the garlic - sauté just until fragrant. Maintain low simmer when making sauce and stir constantly. Cook pasta to al dente for best texture. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting.