Easy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

If you’re craving a dinner that combines rich, creamy flavors with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, you’ll fall head over heels for this easy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce. This dish blends buttery garlic goodness, juicy chicken pieces, and rotini pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce that will make every bite a comforting delight. It’s a straightforward recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen without fuss or stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet gourmet: Combines everyday ingredients to create a luxurious meal.
• Kid-friendly flavors: The creamy Parmesan sauce and mild garlic make it great for all ages.
• One-pan magic: Minimal cleanup with many steps done in one skillet.
• Customizable: Easily adapted to add veggies or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
• Comfort food staple: Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce plays an essential role in building its rich taste and satisfying texture. From fresh garlic to a splash of cream, each adds depth and color that make this dish truly special.

• Chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they’re the heart of the dish providing protein and texture.
• Rotini pasta: The corkscrew shape holds sauce perfectly for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Butter: Adds a rich, creamy base and helps to sauté garlic evenly.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses the sauce with its signature aromatic punch.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta and chicken.
• Parmesan cheese: Provides savory umami and thickens the sauce beautifully as it melts.
• Chicken broth: Builds flavor depth and balances the creaminess without heaviness.
• Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the garlic and cheese.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors naturally.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and ensuring a golden crust.

Variations for Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative! Whether you’re tailoring to dietary needs, adding some extra veggies, or switching up protein, this dish welcomes your personal touch.

• Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Chicken alternatives: Use shrimp or turkey for a different protein twist.
• Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for subtle heat.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free rotini to make this meal friendly for gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for that base layer of flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Chicken in Butter

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Add butter and once melted, toss in the garlic, stirring until fragrant but not burnt. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Parmesan Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Gradually add finely grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce turns creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet, tossing everything to coat the pasta with the rich sauce and tender chicken pieces. Warm through for a couple of minutes to let all the flavors meld perfectly before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

• Use fresh garlic: It makes all the difference for an aromatic and bold flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep it tender by cooking just until opaque inside.
• Reserve pasta water: Use a splash to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Grate Parmesan fresh: Fresh cheese melts better and adds richer flavor than pre-shredded.
• Low and slow simmer: Let the sauce cook gently to develop deep, smooth creaminess.
• Season gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-salting or under-seasoning the dish.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to balance the meal with fresh textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual bowls for cozy dinners, or plate on warmed serving dishes and garnish with lemon zest for a vibrant, zesty twist that wakes up the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but cream sauces may separate upon thawing. Freeze in a sealed container without the sauce and reheat with fresh sauce for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creamy consistency without drying out the chicken or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle also work wonderfully with this creamy chicken and Parmesan sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative in place of heavy cream and Parmesan, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect quick weeknight meal.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Frozen chicken can be used, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper texture.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy Parmesan sauce and garlic butter flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This easy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a surefire way to bring comforting, rich flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this creamy, savory dish invites you to savor every morsel and keep coming back for more. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s a beloved favorite for so many home cooks.

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