Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. The garlic butter sauce adds a depth of richness, while the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses make the sauce creamy and decadent. The juicy, seasoned chicken breast complements the pasta perfectly, and the fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness. It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick, satisfying, and will leave you coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 12 oz rotini pasta

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 3 tablespoon butter (divided)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black 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)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the whole chicken breasts and sear for about 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
   Remove from the pan and let rest. Once slightly cooled, slice into strips.

3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
   Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan and bring to a light simmer.

4. Add Cheese & Thicken:
   Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until fully melted and the sauce is thickened to a creamy consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked rotini to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Let the pasta heat in the sauce for a minute or two.

6. Assemble & Serve:
   Plate the pasta and top with sliced chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to this dish for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or season the chicken with cayenne pepper.

• Swap the Pasta: Feel free to use any other type of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine, in place of rotini.

• Chicken Alternatives: You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier alternative, or even use shrimp for a seafood twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce and thicken it. Alternatively, add a little more Parmesan cheese to help thicken it up.

3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy as when using heavy cream. You can also use a non-dairy milk alternative for a lighter version.

4. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and add it to the sauce once it’s thickened, letting it warm through before serving.

5. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then assemble and finish the dish when ready to serve.

6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken, and the juices should run clear with no pink inside.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the creamy sauce may not maintain its texture as well after thawing. If you do freeze it, be sure to store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.

8. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat. You can also season the chicken with chili powder for a kick.

9. Can I use pre-grated cheese?

Yes, you can use pre-grated cheese, but for the best texture and meltability, freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella work best.

10. What can I use as a substitute for Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for a similar flavor profile.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini in Parmesan sauce is the perfect comfort food that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different proteins, pasta, and even vegetables. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal is sure to impress with its savory, creamy goodness. Enjoy it with loved ones, and savor the delicious combination of flavors!

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