Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
Gather these ingredients for a delicious, creamy delight:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your dish:
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta – Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook rotini until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken – Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest, then slice into strips.
- Step 3: Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the pan to deglaze. Bring to a light simmer.
- Step 4: Add the Cheese – Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until fully melted and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
- Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce – Toss the cooked rotini in the sauce until well coated. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Step 6: Serve It Up – Plate pasta, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Calories and Servings
This recipe provides approximately 690 calories per serving and serves four people, making it ideal for family meals or dinner parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for rotini, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta, reducing the amount of cheese, or incorporating more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli to the dish.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Just reheat before combining with pasta.
4. Can this be frozen?
You can freeze the sauce separately, but the pasta may not maintain its texture after freezing. For best results, prepare fresh pasta when ready to serve.
5. What can I serve alongside this dish?
A fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments to enhance your meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With easy steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this creamy indulgence that everyone will adore!