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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Tender garlic-butter chicken and rotini pasta tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. A comforting, restaurant-style dinner that comes together easily in one skillet.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 chicken tenderloins)
  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • large pot for pasta
  • colander
  • Large skillet
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Slice large breasts in half if needed for even cooking.
  2. Cook rotini in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  3. 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.
  4. Melt remaining butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. 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.
  6. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Add cooked rotini and toss gently to coat.
  8. 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