Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

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If you ever crave a hearty and comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is exactly what you need. Tender pieces of chicken are nestled into a garlicky butter sauce that’s rich with cream and loaded with freshly grated Parmesan. The rotini soaks up every drop of flavor, twisting and twirling through the creamy sauce with just the right bite.

This dish brings together the rustic charm of home-style cooking and the elegance of a creamy pasta dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but equally impressive when you’re hosting guests. From the aroma of garlic simmering in butter to that last cheesy bite, this meal is all about comfort and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to go back for seconds. The flavors are layered and comforting, with garlic-infused butter laying the foundation for the cream and Parmesan to shine. The rotini adds texture, holding the sauce in its spiral grooves, while the juicy chicken gives it protein-packed heartiness.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or needing a quick pasta dish that still feels special, this one ticks every box. It’s also endlessly customizable — add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to make it your own.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs for this recipe, depending on your preference. Breasts are lean and cook quickly, while thighs are juicier and bring more flavor. The key is to cut the chicken into evenly sized bites so they cook consistently.

If you’re in a rush, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works beautifully, too. Just toss it into the sauce at the end to warm it up.

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

This dish combines simple pantry staples with a few fresh ingredients to build layers of savory, creamy goodness. Each component plays a key role in creating the velvety texture and bold flavor of this pasta dinner.

  • Chicken breasts
  • Rotini pasta
  • Butter
  • Garlic
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Chicken broth
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley (optional)
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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about one minute, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes, then stir in freshly grated Parmesan until it melts into a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked rotini. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes so the flavors meld. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and more Parmesan before serving.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This rich and creamy pasta is best served warm straight out of the skillet. The sauce clings beautifully to the rotini, and the chicken stays juicy and flavorful when freshly served. It comfortably serves 4 to 6 people, making it a great family dinner or small gathering dish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring the sauce back to its silky texture. Avoid microwaving it for too long, as the chicken can dry out — stovetop reheating is best.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce?

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, garlic bread makes a perfect companion to mop up all that luscious sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple and nutritious side that balances the richness of the creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crunch of romaine and the tangy Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasting brings out a caramelized depth that pairs wonderfully with garlic and Parmesan.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and vibrant contrast.

Sautéed Spinach

Quick and easy, spinach adds color and nutrition while complementing the garlic flavor.

Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred and seasoned, zucchini is a subtle and earthy addition.

Buttery Peas

Sweet peas with a touch of butter create a mild and kid-friendly pairing.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce made your taste buds dance, there are plenty more to explore:

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

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in mushrooms or toss in some spinach? Did you make it extra cheesy?

I love seeing your spins on these recipes. Feel free to ask questions too — let’s cook smarter, together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to meals.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is everything a weeknight comfort meal should be: rich, flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a skillet, you can bring a restaurant-worthy pasta dish to your table in under an hour. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce 1

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce


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  • Author: Zoe Adelson
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Description

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate weeknight dinner—rich, savory, and loaded with cheesy garlic flavor. This easy chicken pasta recipe features juicy chicken, rotini pasta, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce perfect for cozy meals.


Ingredients

2 chicken breasts

12 oz rotini pasta

3 tablespoons butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)


Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini according to package instructions, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the pan. Stir and let simmer gently for 3–5 minutes.

5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked rotini. Toss to coat, adding pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

7. Let simmer for 2–3 more minutes, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve warm.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version.

Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg
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