Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a rich, comforting dish that brings together tender rotini pasta, juicy chicken, and a luscious Parmesan-infused cream sauce. This meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet easy to make. The garlic butter adds a deep, savory flavor, while the Parmesan cheese provides a velvety finish that coats the pasta beautifully.

This dish is inspired by classic Italian flavors, combining the richness of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of a one-pan pasta meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or that special someone, this creamy delight is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 6 cups water (for boiling)
  • 1 tbsp salt

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Extra grated Parmesan

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rotini Pasta

  1. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then add the rotini pasta.
  3. Cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
  4. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
  4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
  5. If the sauce needs more thickness, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the sauce.
  6. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of spice.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the sauce.
  2. Add the drained rotini pasta and mix well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
  3. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Methods of Preparation

  • One-Pan Method: Instead of cooking the pasta separately, add uncooked rotini directly into the sauce with an additional 1 cup of broth. Simmer until the pasta is tender.
  • Baked Version: Transfer the cooked pasta and sauce to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Spicy Variation: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or use spicy sausage instead of chicken.

History and Formation

This dish draws inspiration from Italian-American cuisine, blending Alfredo sauce with garlic butter chicken. Parmesan-based sauces have been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries, originating from classic dishes like Fettuccine Alfredo. Over time, variations emerged to include proteins like chicken and different types of pasta, leading to the creamy, comforting meal we know today.

Rotini, with its spiral shape, is perfect for trapping rich sauces, making it a preferred pasta choice for creamy dishes. The balance of butter, garlic, and Parmesan ensures a deep, savory flavor profile that has remained popular across generations.

Why Lovers Enjoy This Dish

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a dish loved by couples, families, and food enthusiasts alike because:

  • It’s indulgent and comforting, perfect for romantic dinners.
  • It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for date nights at home.
  • It has a rich, creamy texture that feels luxurious yet homemade.
  • It’s versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on preferences.
  • It pairs well with wine, especially Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Many couples enjoy making this dish together, creating memories while cooking side by side.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, it’s a meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Try it out, share it with your loved ones, and enjoy the flavors of this decadent dish!

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