Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most satisfying, and this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo is the perfect example. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for the family, this dish delivers both comfort and flavor with ease. I first created this recipe during one of those evenings when I wanted to make something quick but still packed with flavor. The smooth, garlicky Alfredo sauce combined with juicy chicken and rotini pasta quickly became a family favorite.
It’s one of those recipes that can be made in under 30 minutes, but the creamy texture and savory flavors will have everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen. The chicken pieces are tender and infused with the rich garlic butter sauce, while the rotini pasta perfectly holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce, making each bite indulgent. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish never fails to impress. It’s also easy to customize to your preferences, adding veggies or extra spices as desired.
The best part? The ingredients are simple and often ones you have on hand, making it a great option when you don’t have a lot of time to go grocery shopping. So, if you’re ready to dive into a plate of creamy, comforting pasta, this recipe is sure to hit the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, then this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo is a must-try. It’s a classic recipe with a twist, featuring garlic butter sauce to give it a rich, savory flavor. The combination of tender chicken and rotini pasta is the ultimate comfort food, while the creamy Alfredo sauce brings everything together beautifully. This dish is perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions because it’s quick, easy, and satisfying.
The best part is how versatile it is you can easily make it your own. Add some vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to boost the nutrition or throw in extra seasonings if you like your dishes with a bit of heat. The dish is also customizable to dietary needs: swap out the heavy cream for a lighter version or opt for dairy-free cheese if necessary.
The balance of savory, creamy, and garlicky flavors makes each bite of this dish irresistible. Plus, the rotini pasta does a fantastic job of holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring that every bite is just as flavorful as the first. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Add the cooked rotini pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variation Ideas:
This dish is already a winner, but here are a few ways you can change it up to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
-
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or any other vegetable of your choice. Sauté the vegetables until tender, then follow the recipe as usual.
-
Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this dish dairy-free. You can also use plant-based butter if needed.
-
Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional value of this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas. These can be sautéed along with the garlic and added to the sauce, or simply stirred into the pasta when serving.
-
Spicy Option: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes, or throw in a chopped jalapeño while cooking the garlic to infuse the sauce with some spice.
-
Lighter Version: If you’re looking to lighten things up, try swapping out the heavy cream for half-and-half or use a lower-fat version of Parmesan cheese. You can also use a whole-grain or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
How to Serve:
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo is delicious all on its own, but if you’re looking for some side dishes or accompaniments to complete your meal, here are some great ideas:
-
Side Salad: A light, crisp salad is a great way to balance the richness of this creamy pasta. Consider a Caesar salad, a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or cherry tomatoes would pair beautifully with the creamy Alfredo pasta. The caramelized flavors from roasting will complement the rich sauce perfectly.
-
Garlic Bread: If you’re craving something extra indulgent, serve this dish with warm, buttery garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, and it adds a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy pasta.
Recipe Tips:
Here are a few tips to help you make the best Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo every time:
-
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: When cooking the chicken, be sure to monitor the heat carefully. Overcooking the chicken can lead to it becoming dry and tough. Cooking it until it’s golden brown and juicy will give you the best results.
-
Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water helps to thicken the sauce and makes it cling to the pasta better, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
-
Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick, add small amounts of the reserved pasta water or more chicken broth to loosen it up. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.
-
Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded. Fresh cheese melts better and adds a creamier texture to the sauce.
-
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping! Make a big batch and store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a pan with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.
-
Make It Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, you can add a pinch more of red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce to the sauce. Just be cautious with the spice level, so it doesn’t overpower the dish.
Cooking Note:
-
Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish, but you can also use chicken thighs for a richer, juicier option. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly.
-
Butter and Garlic: To get the most out of the garlic, sauté it over medium heat to release its natural sweetness, but be careful not to let it burn. Burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter, so keep a close eye on it.
-
Pasta Cooking Tips: When cooking the rotini pasta, make sure to salt your water generously. This helps flavor the pasta from the inside out. Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid it becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
-
Alfredo Sauce: Alfredo sauce can separate if overheated or if too much liquid is added. Keep the heat low once the cream and cheese are incorporated and avoid bringing the sauce to a boil.
-
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep the juices locked in. Slicing it too soon may cause the meat to dry out.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 580
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 450mg
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have rotini on hand, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti would all work great in this dish. Just remember to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore the creamy consistency of the sauce. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and then combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap Parmesan with another cheese if you prefer, but keep in mind that Parmesan adds a specific sharp and nutty flavor. Asiago, Romano, or even cheddar can be good substitutes, though they will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.
5. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To make this dish lighter, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use reduced-fat butter and Parmesan cheese. For a completely dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Conclusion:
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo is the perfect blend of comfort food and indulgence, all packed into one bowl. From the tender, savory chicken to the rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to impress at any family gathering or dinner party. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours of preparation.
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Whether you want to add extra veggies, make it spicier, or tweak it for dietary preferences, this dish can easily be adapted to suit any taste. And don’t forget to add your favorite side dishes, like a fresh salad or garlic bread, to round out the meal.
If you’re looking for a creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying dinner, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo is the recipe you need. Quick, easy, and completely irresistible, it’s a meal the whole family will love no matter the occasion. Enjoy every bite and share the love with those who matter most!
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Add the cooked rotini pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 580
- Sodium: 450
- Protein: 35