Creamy Cheesy Alfredo Pasta Recipe with Garlic Butter Chicken

Picture this: the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filling your kitchen, creamy Alfredo sauce bubbling away, and perfectly cooked, tender chicken nestled among spirals of twisted pasta. This dish is pure comfort and decadence in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you close your eyes, let out a little “mmm,” and reach for seconds… or thirds. The first time I made this Creamy Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken, it was for a cozy family dinner, and let me tell you – it quickly became a household favorite. My kids couldn’t stop twirling the pasta around their forks, and my spouse declared it “The best pasta I’ve ever had!”

Honestly, this recipe feels like a warm hug wrapped up in a bowl. It’s hearty, flavorful, and the perfect dish to whip up when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday evening or a big family gathering, this dish has a way of bringing everyone together around the table. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness that will make you feel like you’re dining at an Italian trattoria – but without the hefty price tag or effort.

I’ve tested this recipe countless times (all in the name of research, of course), tweaking it until it reached perfection. It’s become my go-to when I want to impress guests or treat my family to something indulgent. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Cheesy Alfredo Pasta Recipe with Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll understand why it’s worth bookmarking and making again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but still want a delicious homemade meal.
• Simple Ingredients: No need to hunt for fancy ingredients – everything you need is easy to find and might already be in your pantry or fridge.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or a date night at home, this dish is always a hit.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Creamy, cheesy goodness paired with flavorful garlic butter chicken is a combination that both kids and adults love.
• Rich & Delicious: The creamy Alfredo sauce with melty cheese and tender chicken is the ultimate comfort food.

This isn’t just another Alfredo recipe. The addition of twisted pasta creates a delightful texture that holds onto the sauce perfectly, while the garlic butter chicken adds a savory, melt-in-your-mouth protein that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that’s destined to be a favorite for family dinners, special occasions, or just when you’re craving something truly indulgent.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This Creamy Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken recipe keeps things simple while delivering maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Twisted pasta: Fusilli or rotini work wonderfully to hold the rich sauce (choose whole wheat for a healthier twist).
• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Unsalted butter: For that indulgent garlic butter flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for the most robust flavor.
• Heavy cream: The base of the Alfredo sauce – and yes, it’s worth the splurge for that velvety texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Cream cheese: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the flavor of the sauce while keeping it light.
• Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and the sauce.
• Olive oil: Helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness.
• Optional (but recommended): Red chili flakes for a hint of heat.

If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the pasta for your favorite GF version. Dairy-free? Use coconut cream and a plant-based cheese alternative instead. This recipe is super adaptable, so feel free to adjust according to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot: To cook the pasta.
• Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce and flipping the chicken.
• Cutting board: For chopping chicken and garlic.
• Sharp knife: Essential for dicing chicken and mincing garlic efficiently.
• Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese.

If you don’t have a large skillet, a heavy-bottomed pot can work just as well. For grating cheese, a box grater or a microplane will give you the perfect fine texture. And don’t forget to sharpen your knife regularly – it makes prep work so much easier!

Preparation Method

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
6. Add the cream cheese to the sauce, breaking it apart with your spoon as it melts. Stir until smooth and combined.
7. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes silky.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
10. Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.
11. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture in your sauce. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well and can make the sauce grainy.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – aim for al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Be patient with the cream sauce. Stir continuously over low heat to prevent it from curdling or sticking to the pan.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
• If your sauce turns out too thick, add a splash of pasta water or more chicken broth to thin it out.

Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way that rushing the sauce or using low-quality ingredients can completely change the outcome. Take your time and savor the process – it’s worth it!

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap out the twisted pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter version of this dish.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a flavorful veggie-packed meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for an extra punch.
• Seasonal Twist: Incorporate seasonal veggies like asparagus in spring or butternut squash in fall for a fresh take.

Once, I swapped out the chicken for shrimp and added a splash of lemon juice – it was a fresh, summery twist that my family loved!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Creamy Cheesy Alfredo Pasta Recipe with Garlic Butter Chicken is best served hot and fresh, straight from the skillet to the table. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal, and maybe even a glass of your favorite white wine for the grown-ups.

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pasta before microwaving it so the sauce stays creamy and doesn’t dry out. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors actually deepen overnight, making it extra delicious the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional profile for this dish:

• Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
• Protein: Packed with lean protein from the chicken
• Healthy Fats: From olive oil and unsalted butter
• Calcium: Thanks to the Parmesan and cream cheese

The garlic provides natural antioxidants, while the chicken is a great source of lean protein to keep you full and energized. If you opt for whole wheat pasta, you’ll also get a dose of fiber for better digestion. Plus, this dish is completely customizable for various dietary needs!

Conclusion

This Creamy Cheesy Alfredo Pasta Recipe with Garlic Butter Chicken is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a kitchen superstar. It’s indulgent yet simple, comforting yet impressive, and customizable for any occasion. Whether you’re gathering with family, hosting friends, or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is bound to become a treasured favorite.

Creamy Cheesy Alfredo Pasta Recipe with Garlic Butter Chicken

Print Recipe

A rich and creamy Alfredo pasta dish with tender garlic butter chicken and twisted pasta, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.

• Author: paula
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: Red chili flakes for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
6. Add the cream cheese to the sauce, breaking it apart with your spoon as it melts. Stir until smooth and combined.
7. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes silky.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
10. Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.
11. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

[‘Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture in your sauce.’, ‘Don’t overcook the pasta – aim for al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.’, ‘Be patient with the cream sauce. Stir continuously over low heat to prevent it from curdling or sticking to the pan.’, ‘For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.’, ‘If your sauce turns out too thick, add a splash of pasta water or more chicken broth to thin it out.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 2
• Sodium: 800
• Fat: 30
• Saturated Fat: 15
• Carbohydrates: 45
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 35

Keywords: Alfredo pasta, garlic butter chicken, creamy pasta, cheesy pasta, Italian comfort food, family dinner recipe