Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

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Golden seared chicken, tender rotini pasta, and a rich, velvety parmesan sauce—this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the definition of indulgent comfort food. Each bite bursts with garlicky flavor, buttery depth, and the perfect blend of cream and cheese, coating every twist of pasta and every piece of juicy chicken. It’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for weeknights when you need something filling, flavorful, and fuss-free.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea, a family-friendly crowd-pleaser, or just want to add another easy recipe to your go-to rotation, this one checks all the boxes. The balance of creamy and savory, combined with the chewy pasta and juicy chicken, makes it incredibly satisfying. It’s also customizable—add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to make it your own. Simple to make, yet so elegant it could easily be served at a dinner gathering.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

• One-pot magic: Fewer dishes, less cleanup, more flavor.
• Ready in under 40 minutes: Ideal for busy weeknights.
• Decadent and cozy: The sauce is rich without being too heavy.
• Customizable: Easily bulked up with veggies or swapped with other proteins.
• Kid and adult approved: A creamy dish that pleases every palate.
• Great for leftovers: It reheats beautifully for next-day meals.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into the cooking, having the right tools can make all the difference in how smoothly and efficiently you prepare your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where the magic happens—searing the chicken, building the garlic butter flavor base, and simmering the creamy parmesan sauce. A heavy-bottomed skillet distributes heat evenly and prevents burning.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: Use a medium to large pot to give the rotini space to cook evenly. Salt the water generously to infuse the pasta with flavor from the start.
• Tongs or Spatula: Essential for turning the chicken pieces for even browning and flipping with control, especially when working with hot butter and garlic.
• Whisk: Vital when blending cream and parmesan into a smooth sauce without clumps.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the chicken and mincing garlic with precision.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: You’ll want your ratios just right—especially for the garlic, cream, and parmesan, which balance the dish.
• Colander or Strainer: To drain the cooked pasta efficiently without overcooking it.

With these tools in place, you’re set up for a smooth and enjoyable cooking process.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature: Let the chicken and cream sit out for about 10 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents the cream from curdling when added to the hot pan.
• Dry the Chicken Before Searing: Patting the chicken dry with paper towels ensures a nice golden-brown crust when it hits the butter.
• Salt Your Pasta Water Well: A well-seasoned base elevates the final flavor of the entire dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it just shy of al dente, as it will continue to absorb flavor when tossed in the sauce.
• Grate Your Own Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated parmesan melts like a dream and gives the sauce a silky finish.
• Layer the Garlic Flavor: Sauté garlic just until fragrant—burnt garlic will make the dish taste bitter.
• Save Some Pasta Water: A few tablespoons of pasta water can be stirred in to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this luscious, creamy chicken pasta dish to life:

For the Chicken and Pasta:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, sliced into bite-sized strips)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz rotini pasta (about ½ box)

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins (Customizable):

• 1 cup baby spinach
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Chopped parsley for garnish
• Extra grated parmesan for serving

These ingredients create a well-balanced flavor profile—savory, creamy, garlicky, and just the right touch of seasoning to make every forkful irresistible.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until just shy of al dente, according to package instructions (usually 8–9 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.

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Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for flavor. Then stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

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Step 5: Melt the Parmesan

Lower the heat and slowly whisk in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is silky. Add the crushed red pepper flakes here if using.

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Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the sauce. Then add the drained rotini. Stir until everything is coated evenly in the creamy parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally stir in baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Notes

• Use freshly grated parmesan: It melts more smoothly and adds a deeper, nuttier flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
• Control your heat: When making the sauce, keep the temperature moderate to prevent the cream from separating or the cheese from clumping.
• Make it your own: Add-ins like spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms can easily turn this into a more veggie-packed meal.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: Sliced chicken cooks quickly—once it’s golden and no longer pink inside, pull it off the heat to avoid drying it out.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks fast, especially in butter. Keep the heat on medium and sauté for no more than a minute to avoid bitterness.
• Using cold cream: Adding cold cream to a hot pan can cause it to curdle. Let it come to room temperature before adding to the skillet.
• Not reserving pasta water: A splash of starchy water can fix a thick sauce or help it cling better to the pasta. Don’t forget to save some before draining!
• Skipping the deglaze step: Those brown bits in the pan (called fond) are packed with flavor—deglazing with broth brings all that richness into your sauce.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt as well and may result in a grainy texture. Always go for fresh parmesan.
• Forgetting to taste and adjust: Before serving, taste your dish and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. Seasoning at the end makes a big difference.
• Crowding the pan while cooking chicken: This causes steaming instead of searing. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to get that beautiful golden crust.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into an impressive full-course meal or cozy dinner spread. Here are a few standout options to balance and enhance the flavors:

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8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette
   Use the extra sauce as a dip—you won’t want to waste a drop.
2. Simple Arugula or Mixed Greens Salad
   A light, lemony vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.
3. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans
   Adds color, nutrients, and a crisp contrast to the creamy base.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Slightly charred and caramelized, they bring an earthy bite to the plate.
5. Caprese Salad
   Tomato, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing, summery balance.
6. Sautéed Zucchini or Summer Squash
   Mild vegetables like these absorb flavor well without overpowering the main dish.
7. White or Sparkling Wine
   A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Prosecco complements the buttery, garlicky tones.
8. Crispy Caesar Salad
   With croutons and tangy dressing, it offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.

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These side options not only complement the bold flavors of the dish but also add texture and balance, helping you round out your dinner with elegance and ease.

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Storage Instructions

If you’ve got leftovers of this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce, you’re in luck—this dish stores and reheats beautifully with just a few simple tips:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing (Not Recommended): Because of the cream and cheese in the sauce, freezing may cause it to separate and become grainy upon thawing. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients and add-ins used:

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 510mg
• Serving Size: About 1¼ cups

This hearty dish is protein-rich and filling, making it a complete meal for most—just pair with a simple salad or veggie side if you’re looking to lighten the plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While rotini holds the sauce beautifully, you can substitute with penne, farfalle, fusilli, or even fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook it al dente.

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2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the full dish up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of liquid to bring back the creaminess.

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3. What protein alternatives can I use instead of chicken?

Great options include shrimp, Italian sausage, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust cooking time accordingly depending on the protein.

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4. Can I make it without heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. Add an extra sprinkle of parmesan to help thicken it up.

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5. Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently! The only spice comes from optional red pepper flakes. Skip them if you prefer a milder flavor.

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6. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping?

Make sure the cream is warm before adding the parmesan, and whisk constantly over low heat. Using freshly grated cheese also prevents clumping.

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7. What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or broth to thin it out. Do this gradually while stirring until the sauce loosens to your preference.

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8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas make great additions. Add them toward the end of cooking so they retain texture and color.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s a luxurious, flavor-packed comfort meal that feels special with minimal effort. From the juicy golden chicken to the garlicky, silky sauce that wraps around every twist of pasta, this dish delivers restaurant-quality satisfaction at home.

Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite. It’s fast, flexible, and downright delicious.

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