Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini is a comforting and satisfying dish where tender pan-seared chicken breasts meet al dente rotini pasta in a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Infused with garlic and butter, this meal brings together simple ingredients for a flavorful, homemade pasta dinner that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the sauce:
3 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 ¾ cups heavy cream
1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
For the pasta:
12 ounces rotini pasta
Water for boiling
Salt for pasta water
Instructions
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3️⃣ In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
4️⃣ Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
5️⃣ Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with black pepper and salt to taste. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a bit more cream to adjust the consistency.
6️⃣ Add the cooked rotini to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add the sliced chicken on top and stir gently to combine or leave the chicken layered over the pasta for presentation.
7️⃣ Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
This dish is best served fresh, as the sauce thickens as it sits. If reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can substitute rotini with penne or fusilli if preferred, and grilled chicken can also be used for a smoky twist. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.