When it comes to weeknight dinners that satisfy every craving without taking all night, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is an absolute winner. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to whenever I want comfort food that’s both indulgent and easy to make. There’s something about tender chicken nestled in a rich, garlicky, cheesy sauce that just hits every note, cozy, flavorful, and just downright delicious.
I still remember the first time I whipped this up. It was a busy weekday, and I needed dinner on the table fast, but wanted something that felt special. The creamy Parmesan sauce was velvety, the garlic added that perfect punch, and the mozzarella made it wonderfully gooey. Plus, the rotini pasta held all that sauce so well with its little twists, making every bite full of flavor.
This dish works perfectly for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even meal prepping for busy days. It’s satisfying enough to please adults and kids alike, and versatile enough that you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or seasoning tweaks. If you love creamy pasta dishes that feel like a warm hug on a plate, this one is definitely for you.
Essential Elements and Equipment
To make this dish a success, here are the essentials you’ll want ready:
A large pot: For boiling the rotini pasta perfectly al dente. Don’t forget to salt the water well; it’s the first step to flavorful pasta.
A deep skillet or sauté pan: This will be your one-pan wonder for browning the chicken and creating the creamy sauce without losing heat.
A whisk: Vital for making the roux and blending the sauce smoothly so it’s perfectly creamy without lumps.
A wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the chicken and pasta gently without breaking the tender pieces apart.
Measuring tools: Accurate measurements for flour, milk, and cheeses keep the sauce balanced and luscious.
With these basics on hand, you’ll breeze through the cooking process and be rewarded with a decadent, creamy dinner.
What Makes This Recipe Work
There’s a magic formula here that turns simple ingredients into something irresistible:
Perfectly cooked chicken: Seasoned with Italian herbs and seared until golden, the chicken is juicy and flavorful. Cooking it first and setting it aside lets you build the sauce in the same pan, soaking up all those delicious browned bits.
The garlic butter base: Melting butter and gently cooking minced garlic infuses the sauce with warmth and aroma, which is the perfect foundation for the creamy sauce.
A smooth roux: Whisking flour into the butter before adding milk thickens the sauce naturally, giving it a velvety texture that clings beautifully to pasta and chicken alike.
Cheese trio: Parmesan adds nuttiness and depth, mozzarella brings gooey meltiness, and a touch of garlic powder boosts the savory flavor without overpowering. This combination creates a sauce that’s rich, smooth, and full-bodied.
Twisty rotini pasta: Its shape isn’t just fun, it’s functional. The grooves and spirals catch the sauce, so you get a perfect coating every bite.
Together, these elements create a dish that’s indulgent but balanced, satisfying without being too heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer sauce)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 3: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Sprinkle the flour into the butter and garlic mixture, whisking constantly for about 1 minute. This creates a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Step 5: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is creamy and velvety. Season with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Variations
This recipe is already rich and satisfying, but there are plenty of ways you can adjust it to suit your dietary preferences or get creative with flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- 1. Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken or want to try something different, there are plenty of other protein options that pair wonderfully with this creamy sauce. Shrimp is a great alternative and cooks quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy nights. If you’re in the mood for beef, small chunks of steak or ground beef could work too. You could even try a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based chicken.
- 2. Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat in your dishes, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. This will add a subtle spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- 3. Gluten-Free Option: For those who need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the rotini pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great alternatives available that will work just as well in this dish. Make sure the chicken broth is gluten-free as well, and you’re good to go!
- 4. Add Veggies: Feel free to make this dish even more nutritious by adding some vegetables. Spinach, kale, or even roasted broccoli would add a pop of color and texture to the dish while also boosting the nutritional value. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic in Step 3, and you’ll have a beautiful veggie-packed meal.
How to Serve
This dish is rich, creamy, and hearty, making it the perfect centerpiece for a meal. The best part is that it pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments, so you can easily create a complete meal without much extra effort. Here are some serving suggestions:
- 1. Side Dishes: For a simple yet delicious side, a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta. You could also serve a roasted vegetable medley think roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. The slight char from roasting adds a lovely flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
If you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, try serving the dish with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the leftover sauce. The buttery, garlicky bread is an ideal match for this comforting pasta dish.
- 2. Toppings and Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a touch of freshness that balances the creamy sauce. If you want to add a bit more indulgence, a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving can elevate the dish even more. Some freshly ground black pepper over the top can also give a bit of a zing, adding another layer of flavor.
Recipe Tips
Making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is simple, but here are a few tips that will help you achieve the best possible results:
- 1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: When making a creamy Parmesan sauce, always opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of the pre-grated variety. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and adds a richer, more authentic flavor to the sauce.
- 2. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the heavy cream by simmering it for a bit longer. If you like a thinner sauce, simply add a splash more of chicken broth or the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- 3. Sauté the Garlic Just Right: When sautéing garlic, make sure to cook it until it’s fragrant about 30 seconds. If you overcook the garlic, it can turn bitter and spoil the flavor of the sauce. Keep a close eye on it as it cooks.
- 4. Make Extra Sauce: If you’re like me and love a little extra sauce to dip your bread in or add to the pasta, consider doubling the sauce ingredients. That way, you’ll have plenty of creamy goodness to go around.
- 5. Meal Prep: This dish works wonderfully for meal prepping. Make a larger batch, portion it into containers, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop with a little extra cream or chicken broth to restore the creaminess. It’s perfect for busy days when you need a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort.
Cooking Note
Use Boneless Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, as they cook quickly and easily. You can also use boneless thighs for a slightly juicier result, though the cooking time may vary.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: When cooking the chicken, be careful not to overcook it. Chicken breast can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on it and remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s no longer pink in the center.
Creamy Sauce Tips:
If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or the pasta water you saved earlier.
Stir frequently while adding the cheese to ensure that it melts evenly into the sauce.
For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor. This adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy richness of the dish.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 540 per serving (based on 4 servings)
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 660mg
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is the perfect shape for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can easily swap it for another type of pasta. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle would work well too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! If you want to make this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta and chicken, then prepare the sauce. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat everything in a skillet, adding a little more cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
If you want a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk. You can also use a lower-fat cheese, though this may slightly alter the creaminess and texture of the sauce. For a non-dairy alternative, you can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! This recipe is versatile, and adding vegetables is a great way to make it more nutritious. Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and color. If you like roasted vegetables, roasted broccoli or zucchini would also be great additions.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a dish that combines the best of comfort food with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special family meal, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make each bite irresistible. And with its ability to be customized, you can tweak it to fit your dietary preferences or get creative with the flavors.
This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my house, and I hope it becomes a staple in yours too. I encourage you to give it a try, share your experiences, and leave a comment to let me know how it turned out. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to explore some of the other delicious recipes on my site there’s always something new to try!
Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this creamy, indulgent pasta dish as much as we do!
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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer sauce)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 3: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Sprinkle the flour into the butter and garlic mixture, whisking constantly for about 1 minute. This creates a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Step 5: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is creamy and velvety. Season with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 730
- Sodium: 850
- Protein: 45