CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN WITH CHEESY TWISTED PASTA
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
12 oz twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp butter (divided)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Cook the Twisted Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook twisted pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Adjust the consistency with a little reserved pasta water, if needed.
5. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine and coat everything in the cheesy garlic Parmesan sauce. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to fully incorporate all the flavors.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a comforting, cheesy meal that everyone will love!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: 850 per serving