Name: Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 tbsp unsalted butter (for chicken); 6 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb rotini pasta; 4 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil

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Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. This creamy pasta recipe combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and the irresistible taste of garlic butter. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it features a combination of textures and tastes that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich and Flavorful: The creamy Parmesan sauce paired with garlic butter chicken delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Versatile Options: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the chicken for turkey or beef if desired.
Perfect for Meal Prepping: Leftovers store well and taste great reheated, making this a fantastic option for meal prep.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its deliciousness makes it a hit at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this dish requires some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Medium bowl
Pot or Dutch oven
Colander
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken evenly while infusing it with flavor from the garlic.
Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing spices with the chicken before cooking, ensuring even seasoning throughout.
Pot or Dutch oven: Best for preparing the creamy sauce while allowing ample room to mix in the pasta.
Colander: Essential for draining pasta quickly without losing any precious noodles.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 4 tbsp unsalted butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
* 1 tsp smoked paprika
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Creamy Parmesan Rotini:
* 1 lb rotini pasta
* 6 tbsp unsalted butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper
* 1/4 tsp garlic powder
* 1/4 tsp onion powder
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken cubes. In a medium bowl, toss together:
1. Cajun seasoning
2. Smoked paprika
3. Salt
4. Black pepper

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the seasoned chicken cubes.
2. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet:
1. Melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

While preparing the chicken, cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente:
1. Drain pasta in a colander, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a large pot or Dutch oven:
1. Melt unsalted butter over medium heat again.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (around 1 minute).
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce is ready:
1. Add cooked rotini pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce.
2. Toss well to coat evenly; if too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
3. Finally, incorporate the cooked garlic butter chicken into the pasta and sauce mixture.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chives for an added touch of freshness! Enjoy your delicious Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Serving Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance the flavor and presentation of this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast.
Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta while adding crunch with croutons.

Add a Touch of Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli not only provides color but also nutrients that balance the meal.
Sautéed Zucchini – Quick-cooked zucchini adds a tender texture and mild flavor that pairs well.

Garnish Creatively

Extra Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish.
Chopped Fresh Chives – Adding fresh chives enhances both flavor and presentation, bringing a pop of color.

How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Perfecting your Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is simple with these tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure a delicious dish every time.

Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
Monitor Cooking Times – Cook the chicken until golden brown but not overdone to keep it juicy.
Adjust Sauce Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
Season Gradually – Taste as you go! Adjust spices according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that complement Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken beautifully.

Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread makes for a perfect dipper for any leftover sauce.
Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds elegance and earthy flavors.
Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a vibrant starter.
Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers great texture and nutrition.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity to balance the creamy pasta.
Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with herb butter adds a delightful summer touch to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can sometimes be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are common mistakes to watch out for when preparing Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken.

Ignoring the seasoning: Not adequately seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to evenly coat the chicken with Cajun seasoning and spices before cooking.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rotini pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
Skipping the reserved pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water may result in a sauce that’s too thick. Use it to adjust the consistency of your creamy sauce.
Not letting the sauce simmer: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent the flavors from developing fully. Allow it to simmer on low heat for a few minutes for optimal taste.
Using low-quality cheese: Substituting grated Parmesan with lower quality options may affect flavor and creaminess. Use fresh, high-quality cheese for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Refrigerate up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between until hot.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream and stir until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of rotini?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

How can I customize Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for color and nutrition. You can also swap proteins if desired.

What should I serve alongside Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken?

A simple salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, adding freshness and balance.

Can I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce calories by using less butter or opting for lower-fat cream alternatives without compromising too much on flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or wanting to impress guests, this dish fits all occasions. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!