Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
Introduction
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini is comfort food at its finest — tender chicken cubes, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic‑Parmesan sauce that’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent enough for a special occasion.
Ingredients
12 oz rotini pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
3 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add rotini and cook until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a deep skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add cubed chicken, season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Sear until golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Add remaining 1 tbsp butter to the skillet.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking gently.
Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Let sauce thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine
Return chicken to the pan.
Add cooked rotini and toss until coated in sauce.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~580 kcal per serving
Tips & Tricks
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Add spinach or broccoli for extra veggies.
Swap rotini for penne or fettuccine if preferred.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Bacon Lovers: Stir in crispy bacon bits.
Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp.
Four‑Cheese Version: Mix in provolone or fontina for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with garlic bread or a side salad.
Serve with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a restaurant‑style dinner.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I use half‑and‑half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, though the sauce will be lighter and less rich.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Not recommended — cream sauces can separate when frozen.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a one‑pan wonder that’s rich, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. It’s quick to make, versatile, and guaranteed to be a family favorite.