Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Indulge in a rich, satisfying dish with this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce recipe. It combines tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a silky Parmesan sauce infused with garlic and butter to create the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe delivers layers of flavor and creamy goodness that’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food at its finest: This recipe combines creamy textures and savory flavors that warm the soul from the very first bite.
• Simple ingredients, big impact: Basic pantry staples like garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese come together to create a gourmet taste effortlessly.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
• One-pot magic: Minimal cleanup as the rotini and chicken cook seamlessly in the same pan, soaking up every bit of the Parmesan sauce.
• Customizable to your taste: Easily add veggies or swap chicken for other proteins to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating this luscious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce. They’re simple but essential to achieving the perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and a hint of garlic zest that makes this dish irresistible.

• Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless, they provide tender, juicy protein that pairs beautifully with creamy sauce.
• Rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto all the sauce, giving every bite rich flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the butter and sauce with a fragrant and slightly spicy aroma.
• Unsalted butter: Adds a velvety texture and richness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Heavy cream: The secret to the luscious, silky sauce that coats the rotini and chicken perfectly.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated freshly for that sharp, nutty tang that elevates the sauce like nothing else.
• Chicken broth: For added depth and to loosen the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances and rounds out the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: To season and bring all the ingredients together.
• Olive oil: For searing chicken to a golden-brown finish.

Variations for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Low-carb option: Swap rotini for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce for some heat.
• Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan substitutes to enjoy a creamy texture without dairy.
• Extra greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the rotini

In the same skillet, bring chicken broth and water to a boil, then add rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the pasta absorb some of the flavorful broth.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet once the pasta is nearly done. Sauté freshly minced garlic in the butter until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce thickens and becomes silky smooth.

Step 4: Combine chicken, pasta, and sauce

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce and cooked rotini. Toss everything gently to coat evenly. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow all the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 5: Serve warm

Once combined and heated through, turn off the heat and spoon the creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini in Parmesan sauce onto plates or bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

• Fresh is best: Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Pull the rotini off the heat just before fully al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Layer flavors: Sear the chicken first to develop a golden crust and deeper flavor in the dish.
• Control sauce thickness: Adjust with more broth or cream depending on your preferred consistency.
• Garlic timing matters: Add garlic to the butter and sauté briefly to avoid bitterness but maximize aroma.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or basil brightens each plate, while an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a finishing touch. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper for subtle heat and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables for balance. Garlic bread or warm crusty baguette slices are perfect for mopping up the extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in warm, shallow bowls with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top. Layer with grilled vegetables or caramelized onions for added texture and flair. Wrapping the dish in a colorful napkin-lined basket alongside garlic knots also makes for inviting presentation during casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens when chilled, so you may want to loosen it with a splash of milk or broth before reheating.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, though the texture of the pasta might soften slightly. Freeze portions in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat on low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently and adding a little cream, milk, or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency without overcooking the pasta or drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for holding sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle also work beautifully with this creamy garlic butter chicken recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap the rotini pasta for a gluten-free variety. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add a richer flavor and remain juicy, but adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs can take slightly longer to cook through.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substitute part of the butter with olive oil to reduce the richness without losing flavor.

What can I add for more veggies?

Spinach, broccoli florets, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms are excellent additions that enhance color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce recipe is an absolute labor of love that’s simple to make and bursting with comforting flavors. Whether you’re craving a weekday dinner that feels like a treat or a dish to impress guests without stress, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to comfort classic!

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