Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and creamy texture. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you’re craving comfort food. The combination of garlic butter chicken and creamy Parmesan sauce over rotini pasta makes it a standout choice that is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic butter chicken paired with creamy Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile: Perfect for various occasions, this dish can be served as a hearty main course or at potlucks and gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild yet flavorful ingredients, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables or switch up the seasonings to suit your preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken, having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium bowl
• Pot or Dutch oven
• Pasta strainer
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and garlic evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for making the creamy sauce and ensuring even heating without scorching.
• Pasta strainer: Makes draining the rotini quick and mess-free.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Creamy Parmesan Rotini:

• 1 lb rotini pasta
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken

First, prepare the garlic butter chicken. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

Next, cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If necessary, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Serve

Add the cooked garlic butter chicken to the pasta and sauce mixture. Gently toss everything together to combine well. Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chives as garnish. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Serving it thoughtfully can elevate your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds freshness and enhances the presentation.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad balances the richness of the pasta with its crisp romaine and tangy dressing.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors and provides a perfect vessel for any extra sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette can be used to soak up the creamy sauce, making each bite delightful.

How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

To make your Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips.

• bold Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the rotini pasta just until al dente for the best texture.
• bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• bold Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired creaminess.
• bold Season Generously: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking for optimal flavor balance.
• bold Allow Flavors to Marry: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after combining allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

Complementing your main dish with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted in garlic add a crunchy texture that pairs well with creamy pasta.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings color and nutrients while balancing out rich flavors.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts caramelize nicely, adding depth and an earthy taste alongside your meal.
4. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a bright contrast to rich pasta dishes.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices offer a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, making it an enjoyable side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken can be delightful, but avoid these common mistakes to ensure a perfect dish.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly – Seasoning the chicken is crucial for flavor. Be generous with your spices to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking rotini pasta for too long can lead to mushiness. Follow package instructions for al dente texture, ensuring it holds up in the sauce.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water – This step is essential for achieving the right sauce consistency. Always set aside some pasta water before draining.
• Ignoring the simmering time for the sauce – Allowing enough time for the sauce to thicken will enhance its creaminess. Don’t rush this process; simmer gently.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold heavy cream or butter can disrupt the cooking process. Bring them to room temperature before use for a smoother blend in your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
• Stovetop – Reheat over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, while maintaining similar cooking times.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can create a homemade mix using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I customize Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to children. You can adjust spice levels according to their taste.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is a comforting and versatile dish that everyone will enjoy. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a perfect family meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different cheeses!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is a comforting and indulgent dish that unites tender chicken pieces sautéed in rich garlic butter with rotini pasta enveloped in a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this satisfying recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable, allowing you to incorporate your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb rotini pasta
• 4 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 10 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, season chicken cubes with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Cook rotini pasta according to package directions; drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
5. In a large pot, melt butter and cook garlic until fragrant. Add cream and chicken broth; bring to simmer.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, seasonings and simmer until thickened (5-7 minutes).
7. Combine cooked rotini with sauce; gradually add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
8. Add chicken to the pot; toss well to combine. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 720
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 24g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 155mg