Description: This recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful meal featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta and plenty of Parmesan cheese. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water not only seasons the pasta itself but also helps to elevate the overall flavor of the dish. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente, meaning “to the tooth” in Italian, refers to pasta that is cooked but still firm. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and less appealing. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander, shaking off any excess water. Set aside, ready to be incorporated into the creamy sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture allows the chicken to sear properly, developing a beautiful golden-brown crust. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These seasonings provide a flavorful foundation for the chicken and complement the garlic butter sauce.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel for even heat distribution, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken. The butter should be melted and shimmering, but not smoking. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for approximately 5-6 minutes per side. This searing process is crucial for developing a rich, flavorful crust on the chicken and locking in its juices. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the skillet and place them on a cutting board to rest. Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and succulent final product. Once slightly cooled, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Make the Sauce: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. The leftover fond (brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan from searing the chicken) will add depth of flavor to the sauce. Sauté the minced garlic for approximately 30-60 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to deglaze the pan, scraping up any remaining fond from the bottom. This deglazing process infuses the sauce with the savory flavors of the chicken. Bring the mixture to a light simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy, and luscious consistency. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor, while the mozzarella contributes to the sauce’s creamy texture. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the pasta without being overly heavy.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet containing the creamy cheese sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Allow the pasta to heat in the sauce for a minute or two, allowing it to absorb the flavors and become even more delicious.
Step 7: Assemble & Serve: Plate the saucy pasta and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of the creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still crave a delicious, home-cooked meal.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of garlic butter sauce, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese creates a luxuriously creamy and flavorful experience that’s sure to satisfy. The subtle garlic notes perfectly complement the richness of the cheese.
- Versatility: This recipe is highly adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. You can easily substitute the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even plant-based protein alternatives. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, vegetables, and herbs to customize the flavors to your liking.
- Comfort Food Classic: There’s something inherently comforting about a creamy pasta dish, and this recipe elevates it to a new level of deliciousness. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a cozy night in or to share with loved ones.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish! The familiar flavors and creamy texture make it a winner for even the pickiest eaters.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the extra sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts would be excellent accompaniments.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors of the dish beautifully.
- Extra Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an extra cheesy kick.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy and detract from the overall texture of the dish. Cook the rotini until al dente, meaning “to the tooth.”
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly and has a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Adjust the Garlic to Your Liking: If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, add an extra clove or two of minced garlic.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic while sautéing it. Burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to the sauce.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate some sautéed vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes, to add more nutrients and flavor to the dish.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 650-750 (depending on portion size and ingredients)
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 700-900mg
Conclusion:
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! While rotini works well with this recipe due to its shape which allows it to grab onto the sauce, you can easily substitute it with other pasta shapes such as penne, farfalle (bow tie pasta), or even spaghetti. Just ensure that you cook the pasta al dente according to the package directions.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: While the dish is best served fresh, you can definitely prepare components of the recipe ahead of time. For example, you can cook the pasta and store it separately. You can also prepare the chicken and slice it in advance. However, it’s best to make the sauce just before serving to ensure its creamy consistency and prevent it from separating. Combining everything just before serving will yield the best results.
Q3: Can I use low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
A3: While you can technically use low-fat cream or milk, it will significantly affect the richness and creaminess of the sauce. The heavy cream is what gives the sauce its luxurious texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could try using half-and-half, but be aware that the sauce will be thinner and less creamy.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A4: Yes, absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Some excellent additions include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, broccoli florets, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can add the vegetables to the skillet along with the garlic while making the sauce.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers of this recipe?
A5: Freezing this dish is not recommended, as the sauce may separate and become grainy upon thawing. The pasta can also become mushy. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
