When comfort food meets crave-worthy flavor, you get this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken. This dish is everything you want in a pasta dinner—creamy, cheesy, savory, and satisfying with a punch of garlicky goodness. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking to impress guests with a one-plate wonder, this recipe checks every box.

The rotini holds onto the creamy cheese sauce like a dream, making every bite decadently rich. And those golden, herb-seasoned chicken bites? Juicy, tender, and finished with a crispy sear that’s bursting with garlic and parmesan. It’s a simple yet elevated meal that’s perfect for weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

While you can substitute penne, shells, or even fettuccine, rotini is the real star here. Its spiral shape grabs onto every drop of sauce, giving you a perfectly cheesy and flavorful forkful each time. The texture also holds up well next to the seared chicken, creating the ideal balance of bite and creaminess.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape ensures the creamy cheese sauce clings to every bite.

Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Boneless and skinless cuts work best for juicy, easy-to-cook chunks. Thighs offer a bit more flavor and tenderness.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan deepens the savory profile and melts perfectly into the sauce.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds that bold, aromatic layer to both the chicken and the sauce.

Butter and Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken and adding richness to the sauce.

Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Makes the sauce extra creamy and luxurious.

Italian Seasoning & Paprika: Adds warmth and depth to the chicken.

Parsley (fresh or dried): A fresh herby finish that brings brightness.

Salt & Black Pepper: To balance and enhance all the flavors.

How To Make the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks. Season generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Rotini Pasta

Cook rotini pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium. Add a bit more butter if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and stir, letting it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Combine

Add grated parmesan to the cream sauce and stir until fully melted and smooth. Toss in the cooked rotini, and use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Let it heat through for a minute or two. Sprinkle with parsley and more parmesan on top before serving.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Serve this pasta dish hot right off the stove, garnished with fresh parsley and extra parmesan. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables if you want to round out the meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce’s creamy texture. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month, though the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe lighter?

Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, and try reducing the amount of butter slightly. You can also use grilled chicken breast for a leaner option.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well. Just skip the searing step and toss it in when combining everything in the sauce.

What cheese can I substitute for parmesan?

Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even shredded mozzarella can work in a pinch, though each will alter the flavor slightly.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! It’s warm and savory, but not spicy. If you love heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just swap the rotini for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

Keep some reserved pasta water on hand to thin the sauce while mixing everything together. Adding it gradually helps achieve the desired creaminess.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re all about cheesy, creamy pasta dishes with bold flavors, you’re going to want to try these next:

For even more cozy dinner inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest @lifewithninarecipes where I post daily recipes just like this one!

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s just a click away the next time a cheesy pasta craving hits.

And I want to hear from you—did you stick with thighs or go for chicken breast? Maybe you added a little heat or used a different cheese? Let me know in the comments!

I love seeing how others put their own spin on this comforting classic. Questions are always welcome too. Let’s make dinner even better, together.

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Pasta Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

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Description

This Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a creamy, flavor-packed pasta dinner that combines golden-seared garlic chicken bites with rotini tossed in a rich parmesan sauce. It’s a cozy comfort meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings, made in under an hour!