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When it comes to easy dinner recipes that feel indulgent yet simple to prepare, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce checks every box. This dish combines tender, pan-seared chicken with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all coated in a rich garlic butter cream sauce made with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It is the kind of meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant but can be made right at home in under 40 minutes.
Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, this recipe delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying protein. If you are searching for comforting pasta recipes, creamy chicken dinners, or quick weeknight meals, this dish deserves a spot on your table.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with luxurious flavor. Here is why so many home cooks love it:
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- Uses everyday pantry ingredients
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- High in protein and very filling
- Creamy without being overly heavy
- Easily customizable for different diets
- A crowd-pleasing comfort food recipe
Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting guests, this garlic butter chicken pasta delivers dependable results every time.
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Ingredients Breakdown
• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins work best. Tenderloins cook faster and stay juicy, while sliced chicken breasts provide heartier portions. Chicken is a lean protein that makes this dish filling and nutritious.
• Rotini Pasta – Rotini’s spiral shape traps the creamy Parmesan sauce so every bite is well coated. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle are good substitutes if needed.
• Butter and Olive Oil – Butter adds richness and flavor, while olive oil prevents burning during searing. Together they create a balanced, flavorful base for the sauce.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
• Heavy Cream – Heavy cream creates a silky, luxurious texture and thickens naturally without flour.
• Chicken Broth – Chicken broth adds depth and helps deglaze the pan, lifting flavorful browned bits into the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and adds a savory, nutty finish. Pre-shredded cheese can cause a grainy texture.
• Seasonings – Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes balance richness and add gentle warmth.
• Fresh Parsley – Parsley adds freshness and a pop of color, brightening the finished dish.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
Follow these tips to ensure your creamy chicken pasta turns out perfect:
- Always grate Parmesan cheese fresh for the smoothest sauce
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent mushy texture
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
- Slice chicken evenly for uniform cooking
- Do not boil the sauce after adding cream
- Use low heat when melting cheese to avoid separation
- Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing for juicier results
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable and works well with many variations.
Protein Options
- Shrimp
- Turkey cutlets
- Rotisserie chicken
- Grilled chicken thighs
Pasta Substitutes
- Penne
- Fettuccine
- Rigatoni
- Gluten-free pasta
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Broccoli
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Peas
Flavor Enhancements
- Add lemon zest for brightness
- Stir in cream cheese for extra richness
- Use Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist
- Add white wine when deglazing instead of broth
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed green beans
- Sautéed spinach
- Simple arugula salad
For a balanced meal, pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables to contrast the rich sauce.
Storage Instructions
This dish stores and reheats well, making it excellent for leftovers.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
- Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating
- Avoid overheating to prevent sauce separation
- Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce
Popular Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk works best.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low after adding cream and cheese, and avoid boiling.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes. Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Slice large breasts in half if needed for even cooking.
- Cook rotini in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Melt remaining butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer while scraping up browned bits. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
- Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Add cooked rotini and toss gently to coat.
- Simmer for 2 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving
- Use freshly grated cheese for best texture
- Let pasta sit for one minute before serving to thicken sauce naturally
- Perfect for meal prep lunches
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