Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. The creamy sauce paired with tender garlic butter chicken makes it a standout meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this dish can be ready in about 30 minutes.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and savory taste make it a favorite among both kids and adults.
- Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables or substitute proteins based on your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make this creamy delight, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cooking spoon
- Pasta strainer
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken evenly for perfect flavor and texture.
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for preparing the creamy sauce while allowing for even heat distribution.
- Cooking spoon: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging delicate pasta.
- Pasta strainer: Easily drains excess water from the pasta while retaining its shape.
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.
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. 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.
1. 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.
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add the cooked rotini pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce.
1. Toss to coat evenly; if too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
2. Add cooked garlic butter chicken; gently toss to combine.
Serve immediately garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chives! Enjoy your delicious Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken
Serving Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken can elevate your dinner experience. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes for a complete meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a subtle onion flavor.
- Parsley: Add finely chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Pair with a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the richness of the rotini.
- Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds a refreshing contrast.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; simply butter baguette slices and toast them.
- Breadsticks: Soft and warm, they make an excellent accompaniment to this hearty dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken
To ensure your Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavors significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook rotini until just al dente for the best texture in your dish.
- Adjust Consistency Carefully: Use reserved pasta water gradually to achieve your desired sauce thickness.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking to ensure a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together 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:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a savory side.
- Mixed Vegetable Medley: Sauté seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for added texture.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a light contrast.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a nutritious option alongside the pasta.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges add sweetness that balances the creamy main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can lead to a better dish. Here are some pitfalls to look out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure your meat is well-seasoned before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rotini too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente texture.
- Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can hinder the sauce’s consistency. Always reserve a cup before draining the pasta.
- Rushing the sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly won’t allow flavors to develop. Take your time and let it simmer gently for best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth to a hot skillet can shock it. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before using.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.
Freezing Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water and gently reheat while stirring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to substitute rotini with other shapes like penne or fusilli based on your preference.
How can I customize Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken?
You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
What should I serve with Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal veggies or changing up the protein. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!
Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken
Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful culinary experience that combines rich, savory flavors with a comforting texture. This hearty dish features tender chicken sautéed in garlic butter, enveloped in a creamy Parmesan sauce that coats the rotini pasta perfectly. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy it paired with fresh herbs and your favorite side dishes for a complete meal that everyone will love!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 8 cloves garlic (minced, divided)
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken: Season chicken cubes with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- Cook Rotini Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In a large pot, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Sauté half of the minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, seasonings, and remaining garlic; simmer until thickened (5-7 minutes).
- Combine: Toss cooked rotini in the sauce and gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency. Add cooked chicken and mix gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.