The Magic Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini Recipe

My kitchen always comes alive with this creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini in parmesan sauce that satisfies comfort food cravings instantly.

Aromas of roasted garlic and melted butter fill every corner with warmth.

Tender chicken pieces nestled among perfectly cooked pasta create a delightful harmony of flavors.

Rich parmesan transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal you can easily prepare at home.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

Crisp herbs scattered across the top add a fresh brightness that cuts through the creamy richness.

Gather your ingredients and let’s make magic happen in your kitchen tonight.

Reasons to Enjoy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini

• Savor Quick Comfort: A hearty one-pan meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner with minimal kitchen effort.
• Customize Flavor Boost: Flexible recipe allows personalization through optional red pepper flakes or extra cheese, making it perfect for different taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Creamy sauce and tender chicken create a universally appealing dish that satisfies both kids and adults with its rich, comforting flavors.
• Master Easy Technique: Simple cooking method teaches fundamental skills like sauce-making and chicken seasoning, helping home cooks build culinary confidence.

Ingredients Required for Chicken and Rotini in Sauce

• Rotini: A corkscrew-shaped pasta that perfectly captures and holds the creamy sauce.

• Chicken: A lean protein that becomes tender and flavorful when seasoned and cooked.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Smoked Paprika, Italian Seasoning: A blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to the chicken's flavor.

• Butter, Olive Oil: Provides rich flavor and helps create a smooth cooking surface.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic base to the creamy sauce.

• Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and velvety sauce foundation.

• Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Adds creamy texture and sharp, salty flavor to the sauce.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Provides a subtle spicy kick to the dish.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color to the dish.

Instructions for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini

Step 1: Boil the Pasta Perfectly

Grab a big pot and fill it with water, adding a generous pinch of salt. Let the water dance to a rolling boil.

Toss in the rotini and cook until it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Scoop out some pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chicken with Flavor

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Italian seasoning

Lay the seasoned chicken in the sizzling pan.

Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Lift the chicken out and keep it warm.

Step 3: Craft the Luxurious Parmesan Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Let it dance around for 30 seconds until it releases its aromatic magic.

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to blend. Bring to a gentle simmer.

• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

Stir until the sauce becomes silky smooth. If it’s too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect consistency.

Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together in Delicious Harmony

Reunite the cooked chicken with the skillet of creamy sauce. Add the drained rotini and toss everything together until each piece is gloriously coated.

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with an extra shower of Parmesan cheese.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini

• Save the starchy pasta water to adjust sauce thickness perfectly, creating a silky smooth texture without compromising flavor intensity.
• Thoroughly pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in maximum flavor and moisture.
• Add Parmesan and mozzarella gradually while stirring constantly to prevent clumping and achieve a velvety, luxurious sauce consistency.
• Replace regular chicken broth with low-sodium alternatives to control salt levels and customize the dish for health-conscious diners.
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese to create a delicious plant-based version of this creamy pasta.

Creative Versions of Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Rotini: Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese, and add diced green chilies for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Pasta: Incorporate dried oregano, crumbled feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce. Top with chopped kalamata olives for authentic Mediterranean flair.
• Mushroom Truffle Chicken Rotini: Sauté sliced cremini mushrooms before adding garlic, then stir in a splash of truffle oil for an elegant, earthy dimension to the creamy sauce.
• Pesto Chicken Rotini: Mix prepared basil pesto into the cream sauce, reducing heavy cream by half. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for added crunch and nutty complexity.

Perfect Pairings to Enjoy With Chicken Rotini

• Savor Complementary Wine Selections: Choose a crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to balance the creamy, rich sauce and cut through the buttery chicken flavors.
• Enhance Herb Accompaniments: Serve with a fresh arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to provide a zesty, peppery contrast to the decadent pasta dish.
• Perfect Bread Pairing: Add crusty garlic bread or toasted ciabatta to soak up the delicious Parmesan sauce and provide a satisfying textural crunch.
• Elevate Side Vegetable: Roast asparagus spears with olive oil and sea salt to introduce a light, green element that complements the hearty chicken and pasta combination.

How to Keep Chicken Rotini Fresh Longer

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed chicken and pasta will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Chicken and pasta will maintain quality for up to 2 months when frozen. Avoid freezing cream-based sauces as they might separate.
• Warm refrigerated leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore sauce's creamy consistency. Stir gently and heat until thoroughly warmed, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

• How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Chicken should be white throughout with no pink areas and juices should run clear.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Rotini works great, but you can substitute with penne, fettuccine, or any short pasta that holds sauce well. Just ensure cooking time matches the specific pasta type.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to maintain sauce consistency and prevent drying out.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini In Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savor the irresistible Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce that blends Italian-inspired comfort with rich, velvety flavors. Cheese-lovers and pasta enthusiasts will delight in this hearty dish that promises a delectable culinary journey through simple yet elegant ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta and Dairy:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini pasta
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) pasta water (if needed)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Boil rotini in salted water at high temperature for 8-10 minutes until perfectly al dente. Save 1/2 cup pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.
2. Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sear in hot olive oil over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and thoroughly cooked.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and quickly sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine smoothly.
4. Bring sauce to gentle simmer and gradually incorporate Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, whisking until silky and uniform. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Add red pepper flakes for optional subtle heat. Gently fold cooked chicken back into the skillet with prepared rotini, ensuring complete sauce coverage.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Plate immediately and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for enhanced flavor profile.

Notes

• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for even cooking and maximum tenderness.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere and create a perfect golden-brown crust.
• Cook rotini just until al dente to prevent mushy texture and maintain ideal pasta consistency.
• If sauce breaks or separates, whisk in a small amount of cold butter to help stabilize and smooth out the consistency.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference, or omit completely for a milder flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 625 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 47 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 45 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg