There’s something irresistibly satisfying about knife-catching bites of tender chicken nestled among spirals of perfectly cooked rotini, all bathed in a lusciously creamy Parmesan sauce. This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce hits every comfort-food note: the butter lends a velvety richness, while the garlic delivers that pungent punch we all crave. When those first forkfuls slide across your palate, you’ll taste the savory depth of seared chicken, the gentle tang of Parmesan, and just enough seasoning to keep you coming back for more. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, brightening any table with its golden hue and indulgent texture.
Weeknight dinners, special celebrations, or any time you’re craving something both homey and elegant—this recipe rises to the occasion. You might remember rushing home after a busy day, the last thing on your mind a complicated meal; here, with just one skillet and minimal prep, you transform simple groceries into a restaurant-quality plate. Invite friends over, chat about your day, and let the creamy sauce work its magic as you slice fresh parsley for garnish. Whether you’re a cooking novice looking to impress or a seasoned home chef eager for a new family favorite, these flavors will delight every palate and inspire you to linger at the table a little longer.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN & ROTINI IN PARMESAN SAUCE
Before diving into the cooking, let’s gather the essentials that make this dish shine. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the ultimate creamy garlic butter experience, from texture to flavor harmony.
- Chicken breasts: Lean and succulent, these provide tender protein that soaks up the sauce’s garlicky richness.
- Rotini pasta: Those corkscrew shapes lock in sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is loaded with creamy Parmesan goodness.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken for extra depth.
- Butter: The star of the sauce, melting into satin-smooth cream and carrying the garlic’s aroma.
- Garlic: Minced to release maximum flavor, it infuses the butter with a warm, pungent kick.
- Heavy cream: Creates the silky base for the sauce, giving it body and the ability to cling to both chicken and pasta.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated finely, it melts seamlessly into the cream, providing a savory tang and slight nuttiness.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds fragrant complexity and underscores those classic Mediterranean notes.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the fresh garlic, boosting overall depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Contributes a mellow sweetness that rounds out the savory profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that balance and elevate every other flavor in the dish.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled at the end, it adds a vibrant color contrast and a fresh, herbal finish.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN & ROTINI IN PARMESAN SAUCE
Let’s turn those ingredients into a show-stopping meal. Follow these steps for restaurant-worthy results, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside, ensuring the pasta doesn’t stick.
2. While the pasta bubbles away, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for 6–7 minutes on each side, allowing a golden crust to form. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.
4. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant and lightly golden—be careful not to burn it.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter base. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly over 2–3 minutes.
6. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir vigorously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet. Toss carefully to coat each spiral in the velvety Parmesan sauce, ensuring even coverage.
8. Return the sliced chicken pieces to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the chicken is warmed through and evenly distributed among the pasta.
9. Plate your creation immediately, garnish with a generous scattering of chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot for maximum enjoyment.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN & ROTINI IN PARMESAN SAUCE
Once your skillet masterpiece is complete, it’s all about presentation and pairing to elevate the experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or aiming for a cozy night in, thoughtful serving touches transform this hearty pasta into an unforgettable feast.
- Bright Salad Contrast: Pair with a crisp arugula salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens and tangy dressing cut through the richness, creating a balanced plate.
- Buttery Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of crusty bread spread with garlic butter and lightly toasted. Use them to sop up every last drop of creamy sauce—absolute heaven.
- Roasted Vegetables: Offer a side of oven-roasted asparagus or cherry tomatoes. The caramelized edges add an earthy sweetness that complements the sauce’s savory depth.
- Wine Pairing: Choose a medium-bodied white wine, like a Chardonnay with subtle oak or a crisp Pinot Grigio. The gentle acidity and fruit notes harmonize perfectly with the creamy, cheesy flavors.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN & ROTINI IN PARMESAN SAUCE
Leftovers of this decadently creamy dish can be just as delightful the next day—if stored properly. Follow these tips to preserve texture and flavor, so you can enjoy second helpings without compromise.
- Airtight Container Refrigeration: Transfer cooled portions to a sealed container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents moisture loss and keeps flavors vibrant.
- Freezer-Friendly Portions: For longer storage, place individual servings in zip-top freezer bags, pressing out excess air before sealing. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Gentle Reheating on Stove: Warm leftovers over low heat with a splash of milk or cream. Stir frequently to restore the sauce’s silkiness and prevent scorching.
- Microwave Method: If you’re short on time, reheat in a microwave-safe dish at medium power, stirring every 30 seconds. Adding a tablespoon of liquid helps maintain creaminess.
CONCLUSION
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce has everything you could want in a comforting yet refined dish: juicy chicken seared to golden perfection, rotini noodles entwined in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce, and fragrant herbs to brighten each bite. With just over an hour from start to finish—including prep, cooking, and a brief rest—you’ll have a meal that feels like a special occasion but is simple enough to pull together any night of the week. The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce so smooth and indulgent, you’ll find yourself savoring every last drop.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder, or save a digital copy for easy reference when dinner time rolls around. You’ll also find a handy FAQ below to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, troubleshooting, or creative twists. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment if you try this recipe, need clarification on any step, or simply want to share how it turned out for you. Your feedback and cooking stories inspire new ideas and help fellow home cooks serve up their own kitchen triumphs!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
Description
Tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection meet al dente rotini, all enveloped in a silky Parmesan-infused garlic butter sauce that's rich, comforting and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
-
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
-
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
-
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
-
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
-
Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
-
Add the sliced chicken pieces to the skillet and gently toss everything together until evenly distributed and coated in sauce.
-
Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Note
- For a richer flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of butter when making the sauce.
- You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.
- You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for added texture and flavor.
