Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food dinner—juicy seared chicken served over cheesy, twisted rotini pasta in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce. Rich, indulgent, and ready in just 35 minutes, this one-pan recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you’re craving something truly satisfying.
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
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8 oz (225 g) rotini pasta
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
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2 tbsp (28 g) butter
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1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
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1 tsp (5 g) Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp (5 g) fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. -
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a plate and let rest. -
Boil the Pasta:
Meanwhile, cook rotini in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with a small knob of butter to prevent sticking. -
Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Add the Cream and Cheese:
Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. -
Combine and Serve:
Slice chicken into strips. Toss pasta with the creamy sauce and top with chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Don’t overcook the chicken—165°F is the perfect juicy finish.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest texture.
Rotini’s twists hold the sauce perfectly, but penne or fettuccine work too.
Add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great variations.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce.
Avoid freezing for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American