Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
This creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini in parmesan sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a quick dinner idea or high-protein recipes dinner. Tender chicken is cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, then combined with rotini pasta and a creamy parmesan sauce for a dish that feels like fine dining recipes but is easy enough for a weeknight meal. If you're looking for healthy recipes easy or delicious meals, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir well and let it heat through, but do not boil.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or more chicken broth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Add the drained rotini pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until fully coated in the creamy parmesan sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.