Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce : Irresistible

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. The sauce may separate slightly when reheated, so stir in a bit of cream while warming to bring it back together.

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If “comfort in a bowl” had a name, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce would be it. This rich, velvety pasta dish is a true weeknight hero—quick, cozy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family of four or just need a moment of cheesy, garlicky indulgence after a long day, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up after work, even with a toddler on your hip or a Zoom call in 20 minutes.

Let’s dig into why this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is about to become your new obsession.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This dish is pure magic in a skillet—like if your favorite Alfredo sauce met a golden-seared chicken cutlet and decided to throw a pasta party. You get juicy, seasoned chicken with spiraled rotini pasta that clings to every drop of that cheesy, garlicky, butter-kissed sauce. And the best part? It feels fancy without requiring anything fancy. No culinary degree needed—just a skillet, some pantry staples, and a craving for something deliciously creamy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything that goes into making this dreamy pasta dish come to life:

Chicken Breasts or Tenderloins – Sliced for quicker cooking and a juicy bite.
Rotini Pasta – Because that swirl was made for catching every bit of that Parmesan sauce.
Butter & Olive Oil – A dynamic duo for perfect golden sear and rich flavor.
Garlic – The heart of this recipe, and your kitchen will smell like heaven.
Heavy Cream – For that luxuriously creamy texture.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth and balances the sauce without making it too heavy.
Parmesan Cheese – Nutty, salty, and the MVP of this dish.
Italian Seasoning, Salt & Pepper – Classic seasoning that wakes everything up.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – A little sass for those who like a kick.
Fresh Parsley – For a pretty, fresh finish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Season the Chicken Like You Mean It

Pat your chicken dry (seriously, don’t skip this—it helps that golden sear). Then season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you’re using full chicken breasts, slice them in half lengthwise for faster, even cooking.

Step 2: Boil That Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your rotini until it’s al dente—firm but not mushy. Don’t forget to save about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. That little starchy splash can be a total sauce-saver.

Step 3: Get the Perfect Sear

In a large skillet, heat your butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, until it’s golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and try not to eat it all before the sauce is done (guilty).

Step 4: Build That Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet (don’t you dare wash it!), melt a bit more butter and toss in your minced garlic. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds—just until your nose says oh yes. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all those golden brown bits. That’s flavor, baby.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Dream

Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Whisk until it’s all smooth, velvety, and begging to be eaten with a spoon. If it’s a little too thick, this is where your reserved pasta water comes to the rescue.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the pan, spooning that creamy goodness over the top. Then gently fold in your cooked rotini, tossing to coat every spiral with sauce. Let it all simmer for another 2 minutes so the flavors can get to know each other.

Step 7: Garnish & Go

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve it up hot. Trust me, the leftovers will disappear by morning (if there are any).

Quick Tips for Pasta Perfection

Use freshly grated Parmesan if you can. The pre-shredded stuff doesn’t melt quite as smoothly.
Want a lighter version? Swap half the cream with milk or use half-and-half. Still creamy, still dreamy.
Too thick? Stir in more pasta water. Too thin? Let it simmer a few more minutes to thicken.
Kids hate “green stuff”? Skip the parsley—or hide it under extra cheese. Parenting magic.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce with seared chicken in creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce over rotini pasta.

My Family’s Favorite Midweek Treat

I first made this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce during one of those chaotic “what’s for dinner” evenings when I was short on time and patience but high on hunger. My kids were hangry, I had one pan left clean, and I pulled this together with pantry staples and prayer. It was an instant hit. Now it’s part of our regular rotation, especially on rainy evenings when we all need something warm and comforting.

FAQs: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Totally! Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine will work. Just make sure it’s got some texture to hold that dreamy sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth.

Can I make it ahead?

You can prep the chicken and sauce a day ahead. Just cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve—it makes a big difference in texture.

Is this freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. The sauce may separate slightly when reheated, so stir in a bit of cream while warming to bring it back together.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the kind of recipe that makes dinner feel like a warm hug. It’s quick enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and comforting enough for when life feels just a little too much. If you’re looking for your next go-to chicken dinner, this is it.

So grab a skillet, pour yourself a glass of something nice, and let’s make dinner magic.

More Recipes to Try If You Loved This Creamy Garlic Pasta

If Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce made your heart (and stomach) happy, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these next-level chicken creations too. From cheesy comfort classics to protein-packed dinners with a kick, here are some handpicked dishes that share the same crave-worthy energy—and deserve a spot in your weekly dinner rotation:

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese – Double down on that cheesy garlic goodness with this ultra-creamy, kid-approved mac and cheese twist.
Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet – For a smokier, slightly sweet take on creamy pasta, this skillet meal is your new one-pan obsession.
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake – Want something bubbly, cheesy, and oven-baked? This broccoli Alfredo bake delivers cozy vibes in every bite.
Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole – Watching carbs? This low-carb casserole still brings all the rich, saucy, cheesy goodness without the pasta.

Whether you’re after something quick, comforting, or low-carb fabulous, there’s always something magical simmering at Chicken Magic Recipes. Don’t forget to bookmark your favorites—and maybe cook them all week long.