Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

There’s something truly special about the comfort of a good pasta dish. I’ll never forget the evening I first made Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce. It was one of those hectic days when I was craving something comforting but didn’t have the energy to spend hours in the kitchen. The kids were hungry, my to-do list was growing, and I needed something quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. So, I threw together a few ingredients that I had on hand, and the result was nothing short of magic.

The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rotini made the house smell amazing, and the table was filled with smiles as we dug in. This dish quickly became a family favorite. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner but also fancy enough to serve at a casual gathering. The richness of the garlic butter sauce paired with the Parmesan and mozzarella is so satisfying that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. It’s one of those dishes that’s both comforting and a bit indulgent, exactly what you need when you want to spoil your loved ones (or yourself) with something special.

Now, every time I make this dish, it reminds me of that perfect evening when we all sat down to enjoy a meal that brought us closer together. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or serving guests at a weekend gathering, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• 1. Quick and Easy

Life can get hectic, and sometimes you just need a simple, tasty dish that doesn’t take up too much time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, homemade meal without hours in the kitchen. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish on the table. The best part? Most of the work happens in one skillet!

• 2. Indulgent Creamy Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is truly the star of this dish. Made with a blend of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella, it’s rich, velvety, and full of flavor. The garlic gives it an aromatic kick, while the buttery goodness makes it feel indulgent without being overly heavy. You won’t be able to resist the creamy sauce coating the pasta and chicken every bite is like a little taste of heaven.

• 3. Perfect Balance of Flavors

Between the savory chicken, the tender pasta, and the creamy Parmesan sauce, the flavors in this dish come together beautifully. The Italian seasoning adds just the right amount of herbaceous notes, while the garlic and cheese bring an irresistible depth of flavor. It’s simple, but every bite is bursting with deliciousness.

• 4. Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. Want to make it spicier? A dash of red pepper flakes can bring a nice heat to balance the richness of the sauce. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just want to get creative, this dish can be modified to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta once it’s done, but be sure to save a little bit of the pasta water to help loosen the sauce later, if needed.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of butter to the pan, letting it melt completely. Once the butter has melted, add the cubed chicken breast. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 3-4 minutes. This is the base of your rich, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring that they melt into the sauce and create a smooth, velvety texture. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if necessary to adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Step 6: Add the cooked rotini pasta and the chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy the creamy goodness with every bite!

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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