Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz of twisted pasta, such as rotini or fusilli, and cook according to the package directions until al dente—firm to the bite but fully cooked. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid can help emulsify the sauce later. Set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan heats, season the chicken strips generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you want a subtle kick.

Place the chicken in the hot skillet and sauté for about 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet (don’t clean it — those golden brown bits add flavor), reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, letting it melt fully. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant. Garlic burns quickly, so keep it moving.

Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly and allow the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Lower the heat and begin adding the cheeses. Stir in:

• 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup cream cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Continue stirring until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water and stir well to reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss everything together, ensuring each twist of pasta and slice of chicken is coated in the cheesy garlic sauce. Let it simmer together for 2–3 more minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an optional extra dusting of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight while the flavors are at their peak.