Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta

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Golden, garlicky chicken with a cheesy Parmesan crust nestled over tender rotini pasta swirled in a garlic butter sauce — this Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta is weeknight dinner perfection. Every bite is packed with juicy flavor, crispy-skillet textures, and a velvety sauce that clings to every spiral of pasta.

Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself to comfort food that doesn’t skimp on indulgence, this dish checks all the boxes. It brings together the soul of Italian comfort with the ease of a one-pan dinner. From the seared chicken to the silky butter glaze, it’s a dish that’s both hearty and unforgettable.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta?

Rotini is perfect for this recipe because its twisted shape holds onto the buttery sauce and Parmesan in every bite. But feel free to swap it with penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. The goal is to use a pasta that clings well to sauce and adds a bit of chew.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken breasts – These form the protein-rich base of the dish. Sliced and seared, they soak up the butter and herbs beautifully.

Rotini pasta – Its spiraled texture captures all the garlic butter goodness and grated cheese in every twist.

Butter – The star of the sauce, butter delivers richness and helps bind all the flavors together.

Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves, finely minced, infuse the dish with a savory depth and aromatic warmth.

Parmesan cheese – Adds the signature salty nuttiness that gives this pasta its name. Use freshly grated for best melt and flavor.

Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds a classic Italian flavor backdrop to the chicken.

Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken and keeping it juicy while forming that golden crust.

Spinach (optional) – Stirred in at the end, it adds a burst of green and gentle bitterness that balances the richness.

Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer from the chicken to the final toss of pasta.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts into even cutlets. Pat them dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and let it rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Using the same skillet from the chicken, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a smooth, glossy sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked rotini to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce and toss until fully coated. Slice the cooked chicken and lay it over the pasta. Sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan and stir in spinach if using. Let everything warm through until the cheese melts.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a final dusting of Parmesan and a few cracks of fresh pepper. Serve hot and enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.

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Best Way to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Serve this pasta hot and fresh out of the skillet, while the cheese is melty and the chicken still juicy. A light side salad or garlic bread rounds out the meal perfectly. For added flair, sprinkle fresh parsley or red pepper flakes just before serving.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a richer flavor. Just make sure they’re boneless and cooked thoroughly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the chicken and cook the pasta ahead. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss everything together.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can use a plant-based butter and dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The result will be slightly different in taste but still delicious.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?

Gently warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, but for best results, freeze the chicken and pasta separately. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Does this dish work with gluten-free pasta?

Definitely! Just be sure to follow the cook time carefully as gluten-free pasta can become mushy quickly.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta, here are a few more comforting meals that hit the spot:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a rich, velvety take.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta if you’re in the mood for a beefy twist.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a veggie-packed version.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine when you want a lemony pop.
• One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for a cheesy mash-up.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again anytime: Life with Nina on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add a veggie twist? Maybe a spicy kick with red pepper flakes?

I love hearing how others personalize these dishes. Drop your feedback or questions below—let’s keep cooking deliciously together.

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