Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Meal
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce, a delightful dish combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic butter Parmesan sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any night of the week!
Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce:
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its creamy texture, flavorful garlic butter sauce, and hearty chicken and pasta, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.
- Rich & Creamy: A velvety garlic butter sauce with heavy cream and Parmesan coats the pasta for ultimate comfort.
- Savory Chicken: Tender, juicy pieces of chicken breast (or thighs) are cooked to perfection and add protein to the dish.
- Flavor-Packed: The garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning give the dish a robust flavor that everyone will love.
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: High in protein, chicken provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
- Parmesan Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, Parmesan adds a savory depth of flavor while providing some bone health benefits.
- Heavy Cream: Adds a smooth texture, delivering healthy fats that contribute to satiety and flavor.
- Rotini Pasta: A whole grain option can boost fiber content, making this dish more filling and nutritious.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta (Time: 10 minutes)
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken (Time: 5-7 minutes)
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce (Time: 5 minutes)
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits from the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Cream and Parmesan (Time: 2 minutes)
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
5. Combine the Chicken and Pasta (Time: 2 minutes)
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked rotini pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the Parmesan sauce.
6. Finish and Serve (Time: 1-2 minutes)
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving (varies based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Once it’s golden brown and no longer pink inside, it’s ready to go.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor and smoothest sauce, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding sautéed spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the dish for more color and flavor.
FAQ About Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
Q: Can I use a different protein?
A: Yes, you can swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts:
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. With its creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. Quick, easy, and downright delicious, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
If you loved this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Leave a comment below and let us know how your meal turned out. Feel free to get creative with add-ins like veggies or extra spices!
