Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce: A Decadent Delight for Any Palate 🍝🧄✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a dish that brings together the rich and savory flavors of garlic, butter, and creamy Parmesan sauce, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini. This satisfying meal features tender chicken and perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all enveloped in a super luscious sauce that will leave you craving more of this easy chicken pasta. Perfect for family dinners, cozy weeknight meals, or special occasions, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is not just easy to make, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of dinner recipes. Let’s dive into the creamy, garlicky goodness with this step-by-step guide to making the best Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini!
2. Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini. Make sure to have these ingredients on hand before you start, for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of our creamy garlic butter chicken
- 8 oz rotini pasta – Or your favorite shape! This makes this a great option in pasta recipes.
- 4 tablespoons butter – Because everything’s better with butter.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Finely minced for maximum flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – For that ultimate creamy texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is always best!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously for the best flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
3. Instructions: Making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create your own Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce. Each step is designed to help you achieve the perfect creamy, savory dish.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides, then carefully add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Rotini Pasta for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This part is crucial to making your pasta dish perfect. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water. This starchy water can be a lifesaver if you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic over medium-low heat for about a minute, being careful not to let it burn – burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter. Then, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes wonderfully creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This creamy garlic butter sauce is what makes this chicken recipe so amazing!
Step 4: Combine and Serve Your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
Slice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or strips. Add the sliced chicken to the creamy Parmesan sauce in the skillet, along with the cooked rotini pasta. Toss everything together gently until well combined, ensuring the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the luscious sauce. Heat through for another minute or two. Serve your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini hot, garnished generously with fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!
4. Storage Tips for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them properly to maintain their deliciousness. Here are some storage tips for your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini:
Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the sauce to separate. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
5. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
Serve it with a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving it with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you love this recipe, you might enjoy some of our other cheesy recipes, such as Shrimp Stuffed Grilled Cheese with Garlic Bread or even a Grilled Cheese Burrito!
6. FAQs About Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini, to help you troubleshoot and customize the recipe to your liking.
Can I use other pasta shapes instead of rotini in this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini recipe?
Yes! Feel free to substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, farfalle, or fettuccine work particularly well with the creamy sauce
Is there a way to make this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative. To reduce the fat content, substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option like half and half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. You can also increase the vegetable content to add more nutrients and fiber.
Can I add vegetables to this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini recipe?
Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the dish. Consider adding spinach, broccoli florets, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. You can sauté the vegetables alongside the chicken or steam them separately and then add them to the sauce.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this creamy garlic butter chicken Recipe?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs can add even more flavor and stay moist during cooking. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.
Are you looking to try other recipes? check out this similar recipe.
7. Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful and comforting dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety, flavorful sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to share with loved ones, don’t hesitate to recreate this scrumptious recipe and experience the mouthwatering flavors for yourself! From our family recipes, you can also try Navajo cornbread recipe, cheesy ham toaster recipe, loaded veggie cheese omelette recipe or high protein pepperoni pizza rolls recipe.