Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – Quick & Delicious Favorite

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is more than just a mouthful to say—it’s comfort food at its finest. Creamy garlic butter chicken recipes are basically the grown-up version of mac and cheese. They’ve got that same cozy vibe, but with a flavor upgrade that makes them perfect for weeknight dinners or hosting your in-laws (without the panic).

This dish blends juicy golden chicken with twirls of rotini pasta, all wrapped up in a silky Parmesan sauce that hugs every bite. If you’ve got a picky eater in the house or just want something everyone will say “wow” to, this is your go-to. And hey, it’s also a great way to trick your kids into eating something that didn’t come from a box. Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the dinner that says, “Yes, I do have it together”—even if you were scraping cheese off the fridge door five minutes ago.

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What is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce?

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is basically the culinary equivalent of a cozy sweater. At its core, it’s seared chunks of tender chicken seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic powder, sautéed in butter, and then bathed in a dreamy Parmesan cheese sauce. And let’s talk about that sauce—it’s made from a mix of heavy cream, chicken broth, and two types of cheese (Parmesan and mozzarella), so you know it’s not messing around.

The rotini pasta isn’t just here for the ride either—its spiral shape grabs onto that creamy sauce like it was made for it (because it was). It’s a dish that feels a little fancy but is super simple to throw together. Think of it as your weeknight win, Sunday dinner staple, or that one recipe you always bust out when you’re not in the mood for complaints.

Reasons to Try Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

First of all—hello, flavor! Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is packed with everything you crave: savory garlic, melty cheese, and buttery chicken that tastes like it got a hug from Nonna herself. But beyond the obvious deliciousness, this dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Got 30 minutes and a hungry crew? Boom—dinner’s done.

It also makes amazing leftovers (and who doesn’t love a next-day pasta that still tastes like it came fresh out of a restaurant kitchen?). Plus, it’s the kind of dish that works year-round—warm enough for a cozy winter meal, but light enough to enjoy even when it’s hot out. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling dance recitals and soccer practice or just someone who wants a go-to dinner that always delivers, this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta is your new best friend.

Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz rotini pasta

Instructions to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is as comforting as the dish itself. This step-by-step guide walks you through each stage of the recipe, offering helpful tips along the way to make sure your pasta turns out rich, creamy, and utterly crave-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy evening in, follow this detailed step-by-step process to get it right every single time.

Step 1: Cook the Rotini to Al Dente Perfection

Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, generously salt the water—this is your first chance to season the pasta from the inside out. Add 12 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. That means the pasta should still have a little bite—soft on the outside but firm in the center.

Why al dente? It holds up better when mixed into sauces and won’t turn mushy as leftovers. Once the pasta is ready, drain it but save about ½ cup of the pasta water—you might need it later to adjust your sauce’s thickness.

Need help choosing pasta shapes? While rotini is perfect for clinging to creamy sauces, check out our guide to pasta pairings for more inspiration.

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, grab two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, toss the chicken with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. This quick seasoning blend builds layers of flavor before the chicken even hits the pan.

Heat 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy (but not browned), add the seasoned chicken. Sauté until the chicken is golden on the outside and fully cooked inside—about 5–7 minutes depending on your pan and cube size. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to get an even sear on all sides.

Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm. Pro tip: avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed for the best caramelization.

Craving another chicken dish with golden sear and bold flavor? Try these easy air fryer chicken bites for a fast and crispy option.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Using the same skillet (no need to wash it—you want all that chicken flavor), reduce the heat slightly and toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, or it’ll turn bitter.

Next, slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth. Stir continuously to combine, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This stage allows the sauce to reduce slightly and start to thicken.

For a dairy-free variation or alternative ingredients, you can explore our substitution tips for creamy sauces that still pack all the comfort.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses

Now it’s time for the indulgent part. Add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup of shredded mozzarella into the sauce. Stir slowly and continuously until both cheeses melt completely, forming a smooth, velvety sauce.

If the sauce feels a bit too thick, here’s where that reserved pasta water comes in—add a splash at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon without feeling too heavy or clumpy.

Using freshly grated cheese is key here. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Need a refresher on how to prep cheese like a pro? Check out our kitchen tips for creamy dishes.

Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently stir it into the creamy sauce. Next, add your drained rotini. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in that rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce.

If you want to get fancy, sprinkle in a little extra mozzarella and cover the pan for a minute to let it melt on top for a stretchy, gooey finish.

Feeling adventurous? For a little heat and tang, add sun-dried tomatoes or a pinch of red pepper flakes here. Want to go low-carb instead? Try our creamy keto chicken Alfredo bake for a pasta-free alternative.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini into serving bowls or plates. Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley—it adds a touch of color and a hint of brightness that balances the richness of the sauce.

Serve hot and enjoy immediately. Bonus points if you have warm crusty bread on the side to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

For more pasta favorites like this, don’t miss our angel chicken rice casserole—another creamy classic you’ll want in regular rotation.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This dish is plenty hearty on its own, but if you’re feeling a little extra, you can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread (because double garlic is always a good idea). A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness and makes the meal feel a little more balanced—like you’re basically eating health food, right? Roasted broccoli or green beans also make great sides and take almost no effort. If you’re really into that Italian-inspired comfort, serve it up with a glass of white wine and a good conversation. Or hey, Netflix and stretchy pants work too.

Key Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

1. Use fresh Parmesan—not the shaker stuff. It melts better and gives your sauce that rich, nutty flavor you want.
2. Season as you go. Chicken, pasta water, and the sauce all need their own little dose of love.
3. Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente is key—it keeps things from turning to mush once mixed.
4. Sauté in stages. Brown your chicken first, then build flavor in the same pan with garlic and cream. It keeps everything tasty without extra dishes.
5. Reserve that pasta water! A splash works wonders to adjust the sauce texture.
6. Want more veggies? Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes before the cheese goes in.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Leftovers? Lucky you. Store any extra pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, do it gently—low and slow on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. The microwave works too, but keep it short and sweet (think 30-second bursts with a stir in between). This dish also freezes decently, though the texture of the sauce can shift a bit. If you go the freezer route, just make sure it’s sealed tight, and reheat it on the stovetop with a little extra cream to smooth things out.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?
Totally! Penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well—just stick to something that catches the sauce.

Is there a lighter version?
You can sub half-and-half for the heavy cream and use less cheese, but let’s be honest—this dish is all about the creamy indulgence.

Can I add veggies?
Absolutely. Toss in baby spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the simmer stage for extra color and nutrition.

Does it reheat well?
Yes, and it might taste even better the next day. Just be gentle when reheating so the sauce stays smooth.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
You can, but freshly sautéed gives better flavor. If using cooked, add it in when combining with the sauce to heat it through.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is one of those meals you’ll find yourself craving again and again. It’s quick, comforting, and full of flavor—and best of all, it works for everything from casual weeknight dinners to impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling a thousand things or just someone who loves good food without fuss, this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta brings everyone to the table. Looking for more creamy chicken dinners? You’ll love this Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice that’s just as dreamy.

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