There are days when I want something indulgent, cheesy, and comforting—but still crave bold flavors and that perfect sear on tender chicken. That’s exactly how this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken came to be. The combination is ridiculously satisfying: rotini pasta drenched in a luscious, creamy Alfredo sauce and paired with juicy, pan-seared garlic butter chicken that’s golden, crispy-edged, and seasoned to perfection.

This dish is a beautiful balance between cozy and elevated. The curls of the rotini hold onto every bit of that cheesy Alfredo sauce, and the buttery herbs coating the chicken lift it into a restaurant-worthy bite. It’s one of those meals I keep coming back to when I need something hearty, comforting, and downright irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce

Creamy and flavorful – the Alfredo sauce is rich, cheesy, and coats the pasta like a dream.
Golden-seared chicken brings a crispy outside and tender inside with bold garlic-herb flavor.
Family-friendly and kid-approved—picky eaters love it.
Easy enough for weeknights, fancy enough for guests.
One plate, full satisfaction—protein, carbs, and creamy goodness in every bite.

What Type of Pasta Works Best for This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta?

I love using rotini (or any twisted pasta) for this recipe because its spiral shape holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce so well. Each curl grabs bits of the cheese and herbs, making every bite flavorful. If you don’t have rotini, fusilli or cavatappi are excellent alternatives. They provide that same sauce-hugging texture that makes this dish so rich and satisfying.

Longer noodles like fettuccine or linguine can work too, but they won’t trap the sauce quite the same way. This dish thrives on that sauce-to-pasta cling.

Options for Substitutions

Chicken: Swap with shrimp, turkey breast, or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.
Pasta: Any short pasta like penne, farfalle, or macaroni can replace rotini.
Cheese: Alfredo usually uses Parmesan, but feel free to blend in Romano, Asiago, or even a bit of mozzarella for more meltiness.
Cream: If heavy cream feels too rich, half-and-half or whole milk with a touch of butter can lighten things up.
Herbs: I use dried parsley and Italian seasoning, but fresh basil or thyme adds a bright note if you have it on hand.
Garlic Butter: Vegan butter or olive oil can be used if you’re avoiding dairy or want a different flavor twist.

Ingredients for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce

Rotini Pasta
The twisted shape is perfect for catching and holding onto the Alfredo sauce, ensuring every bite is coated with cheesy goodness.
Chicken Breast
Boneless and skinless, it’s lean, juicy, and absorbs the garlic butter and seasoning beautifully when seared to a golden crust.
Garlic (minced)
This infuses both the chicken and the sauce with deep, aromatic flavor that brings the entire dish together.
Butter
Essential for creating that rich, golden garlic butter that coats the chicken and adds depth to the Alfredo sauce.
Olive Oil
Helps in searing the chicken evenly and gives a touch of flavor to the base of the dish.
Heavy Cream
The heart of the Alfredo sauce—makes it luxuriously creamy and indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
Adds salty, nutty richness and melts perfectly into the cream for that iconic Alfredo texture.
Mozzarella Cheese (optional)
For extra gooeyness and a stretchy, cheesy element that makes the sauce irresistible.
Italian Seasoning
A balanced mix of herbs that complements both the chicken and the Alfredo sauce.
Salt & Black Pepper
For seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of each component.
Dried Parsley or Fresh Chopped Herbs (for garnish)
Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final plate.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, toss them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a bit of olive oil to evenly coat each piece.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken in Garlic Butter

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Then, add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (and mozzarella, if using). Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini to the Alfredo sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta. If needed, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce for a silkier consistency.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Arrange the creamy Alfredo pasta on a serving plate and top it with the golden garlic butter chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of dried parsley or freshly chopped herbs for that final touch.

How Long to Cook the Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Pasta Cooking Time: Around 8–10 minutes (depending on the brand and texture preference).
Chicken Cooking Time: 6–8 minutes for a golden sear and fully cooked interior.
Alfredo Sauce Cooking Time: 5–6 minutes to bring everything together smoothly.
Total Time: Approximately 25–30 minutes from start to finish.

This makes it a perfect recipe when you need a quick yet satisfying dinner that doesn’t take over your evening.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Use fresh garlic: It makes a huge difference in flavor. Avoid the jarred stuff if you can.
Don’t overcook the chicken: You want it juicy inside and golden outside—medium-high heat does the trick quickly.
Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Warm the cream before adding cheese: This prevents the sauce from splitting or turning gritty.
Reserve pasta water: A spoon or two added at the end can help emulsify the sauce and make it extra silky.
Taste as you go: Especially with seasoning—cheese adds saltiness, so balance accordingly.
Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking while the sauce is hot and creamy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breast can go from juicy to dry fast. Keep the heat medium-high, don’t overcrowd the pan, and remove it once golden and just cooked through.
Using Cold Cream or Cheese: Adding cold ingredients to a hot pan can cause the sauce to curdle. Let your cream come to room temperature and stir in cheese slowly over low heat.
Skipping the Pasta Water: It’s liquid gold! A splash at the end helps the sauce bind to the pasta smoothly and gives you that glossy finish.
Overcrowding the Skillet: Cooking the chicken in batches if necessary helps get a better sear. Too much chicken at once will steam it instead of browning it.
Not Salting the Pasta Water: This is your only chance to season the pasta itself. Salty water = flavorful pasta.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It doesn’t melt as well due to added starches. Always grate your cheese fresh for the best texture.

What to Serve With Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, soft inside—perfect for mopping up any leftover Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing balance the richness of the dish.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Sweet and slightly acidic, they cut through the creamy sauce beautifully.

Steamed Broccoli

A healthy and fresh contrast that adds color and texture to your plate.

A Glass of White Wine

A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy, garlicky notes.

Lemon-Parsley Green Beans

Light and zesty—an ideal refreshing side that doesn’t overpower.

Cucumber & Red Onion Salad

Adds a crunchy, cool bite that balances out the warmth and heaviness of the pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory, they pair especially well with the garlic butter chicken.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of milk or cream while reheating will bring it back to life.
Freezer: Not ideal, as creamy sauces can separate when frozen and reheated. If you must freeze it, store it in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Reheat slowly over low heat.
Reheating Tips: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a tablespoon of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to keep it creamy and smooth.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~680 kcal
Protein: 38g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 160mg
Sodium: 620mg

Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on specific brands and ingredient quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk and add a tablespoon of butter to maintain richness. For a lighter version, use evaporated milk.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, absolutely. Just warm it in the garlic butter for flavor before adding it to the pasta. It’s a great time-saver when you have leftovers.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the components in advance, but for best texture and flavor, assemble it fresh. Reheating is possible but may require extra cream to revive the sauce.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?

Just add a bit of the reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to thin it to your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Broccoli, spinach, peas, or mushrooms would be delicious additions stirred into the pasta or served on top.

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from separating?

Use low to medium heat, avoid boiling the cream, and add cheese slowly while stirring constantly to keep the sauce smooth and emulsified.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all—but if you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when seasoning the chicken.

Conclusion

Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce is the kind of dish that feels like a hug on a plate. It brings together crispy golden chicken, silky Alfredo, and perfectly textured pasta in a way that’s simple to cook yet full of flavor. Whether you’re serving guests or just craving something indulgent after a long day, this dish delivers big-time comfort with minimal effort. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation.