Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

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If comfort had a flavor, this would be it. Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the weeknight dinner that tastes like a weekend indulgence. Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden and juicy, paired with tender rotini pasta cloaked in a rich, cheesy garlic parmesan sauce. It’s a cozy, family-style meal that never misses.

The magic here is in the layers of flavor. First, the garlic butter melts into the pan, giving the chicken that crave-worthy sear. Then comes the silky parmesan sauce, infused with herbs and the perfect amount of heat from cracked black pepper. Twirl it all together with al dente rotini, and you have a dinner that’s simple to make yet wildly satisfying.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

Rotini is our pasta of choice for this dish, and not just for its cute spiral shape. The ridges are excellent at capturing the luscious parmesan sauce, ensuring each bite is coated with flavor. But if you’re in a pinch, penne or bowties would also hold up well without losing the creamy magic.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Chicken Breast: A lean and tender protein that sears beautifully in butter and holds onto seasoning well.

Rotini Pasta: Its spiral shape traps all that creamy, cheesy sauce in every curve.

Butter: Unsalted butter provides a rich base for the garlic to bloom and the chicken to brown.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds sharp, savory depth that defines this dish.

Heavy Cream: Brings the luscious, velvety texture to the parmesan sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for best melt and nutty, salty flavor.

Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of color to balance the richness.

Salt & Pepper: Basic but essential for building flavor from the first sear to the final stir.

Olive Oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning and enhances the sear on the chicken.

Paprika: Adds warmth and color to the chicken.

Italian Seasoning: Rounds out the flavor profile with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.

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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then generously season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and let it rest.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt a little more butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Thicken the Sauce

Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and continue to stir until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and cracked pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice the seared chicken into strips. Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Layer the chicken on top or mix it all together—your call!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the finished dish for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, creamy comfort of this satisfying meal.

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How to Serve and Store This Creamy Chicken Pasta

This creamy garlic butter chicken pasta is best served fresh while the sauce is hot and silky. Plate it up family-style or serve individually with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a side of garlic bread for good measure.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as they may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Avoid milk, as it might make the sauce too thin.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately and combine just before serving to maintain the creamy texture.

How can I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or season the chicken with cayenne pepper along with the paprika.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily swap the rotini for a gluten-free pasta to make it suitable.

What vegetables can I add?

Steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes pair beautifully with the creamy parmesan base and will add a nutritional boost.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re into creamy, comforting pasta dishes with a twist, here are a few more you’ll love:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a citrusy zing with richness.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for extra creaminess.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta if you’re looking to switch it up with ground beef.
• One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese when you want it cheesy and low-fuss.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for pure nostalgic comfort.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you toss the chicken in or serve it on top? Add any greens or a little heat?

I’d love to hear how you made this dish your own. You can also follow along for more creamy pasta favorites on my Pinterest: Life with Nina.

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