Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Rotini Pasta

why make this recipe

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The blend of garlic and Parmesan creates a comforting flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy evenings.

how to make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 12 oz rotini pasta

Directions:

1. Cook the Rotini: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a bit of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
2. Season and Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season your cubed chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Stir in the Cheese: Add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until completely melted into a smooth, creamy sauce. You’ll see it transform into a luxurious texture that clings beautifully to pasta.
5. Bring it All Together: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss in the cooked rotini and gently mix to coat every piece in that delicious creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will help loosen it up.
6. Serve and Garnish: Plate up your creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a bit of freshness.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Serve this dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It goes well with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread. Make sure to have some extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want an extra cheesy experience!

how to store Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to help loosen the sauce if necessary.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
• Use freshly grated cheese for a better melting quality and flavor.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for some extra nutrition and color.

variation

You can replace rotini with any pasta of your choice. You could also use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist, or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed and cooked through before adding to the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter. However, this might alter the richness of the sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make it dairy-free.

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