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 the perfect comfort dish, blending tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic butter Parmesan sauce. This dish is inspired by classic Italian Alfredo but with a unique twist, incorporating rich garlic butter for an extra depth of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a date night, or simply indulging in a cozy meal, this creamy pasta dish is a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika

For the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup whole milk (optional for extra creaminess)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (for depth of flavor)
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rotini Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter.
  2. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Slowly add the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring continuously.
  5. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  6. Add red pepper flakes and nutmeg for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
  2. Add the cooked rotini pasta and toss everything together until well combined.
  3. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
  2. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Methods & Techniques

  • Sautéing the Garlic: Cooking garlic in butter releases its natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Simmering the Sauce: Letting the sauce simmer allows it to thicken naturally without needing additional thickeners.
  • Al Dente Pasta: Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures it holds its shape and absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.

The History of Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This dish has roots in classic Italian Alfredo pasta, which originated in Rome in the early 20th century. Alfredo di Lelio first made this famous dish with butter, Parmesan, and pasta. Over time, it evolved in American cuisine, incorporating heavy cream and garlic for a richer taste. The addition of garlic butter and rotini pasta in this version modernizes the traditional dish while keeping its essence intact.

Who Will Love This Dish?

  • Cheese Lovers: The rich Parmesan sauce is a dream for cheese enthusiasts.
  • Garlic Fans: The bold garlic butter flavor makes this dish irresistible.
  • Comfort Food Seekers: Creamy, warm, and satisfying—perfect for cozy meals.
  • Pasta Enthusiasts: The rotini shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it an instant favorite. Whether you’re preparing this for a special occasion or just a regular dinner, it’s a dish that will impress and satisfy every time. Try it today and enjoy a taste of creamy, garlicky perfection!

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