Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a comforting, restaurant-style pasta dish made at home. Tender bites of seared chicken are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with parmesan, then tossed with perfectly cooked rotini for a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of indulgent and approachable. The creamy parmesan sauce is silky and packed with flavor, while the garlic butter adds a luxurious depth. It’s a complete one-pan meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends. Plus, it’s family-friendly and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Rotini pasta
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
3. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
7. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes.
9. Add the cooked rotini and toss to coat in the sauce.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

Variations

• Add veggies: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.
• Cheese boost: Add mozzarella or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Low-carb option: Serve over zoodles or steamed cauliflower instead of rotini.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

storage/reheating

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

To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well with this creamy sauce.

Is it okay to use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For best results, stick with heavy cream or add a thickener if using milk.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare and refrigerate it, then reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat this without drying it out?

Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating and warm slowly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely. Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for extra umami and texture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among kids.

Can I make it in one pot?

Yes, cook the chicken and sauce in one pan and stir in the pasta once it’s cooked separately.

What kind of parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture compared to pre-grated versions.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time and add the pre-cooked chicken when simmering the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low and avoid boiling once the cream is added. Stir frequently and don’t overheat.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a rich, comforting dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. With tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and a velvety parmesan sauce, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a family dinner or a special meal at home, it’s sure to impress with every creamy bite.

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