Julia Walton
Indulge in the ultimate comfort meal with this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Golden, juicy chicken coated with flavorful garlic-parmesan seasoning pairs perfectly with creamy, cheesy rotini pasta. It’s the kind of dish that transforms any ordinary night into a cozy, home-style dinner feast.
Each forkful of this recipe combines tender bites of pasta swirled in a rich cheese sauce with the slightly crisp, savory chicken. This meal is hearty, filling, and brimming with flavor. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?
Rotini is our go-to because its spiral shape grabs onto the cheesy sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is creamy and delicious. However, penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni can work in a pinch. The key is choosing a shape with grooves or curves to hold onto the rich sauce.
Ingredients for Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Rotini Pasta – The spirals are perfect for catching the cheesy sauce.
- Boneless Chicken Breast – Juicy and tender when cooked right, ideal for soaking in the garlic-parmesan flavor.
- Garlic Powder & Fresh Garlic – Adds depth and that classic savory aroma.
- Parmesan Cheese – For nutty, salty richness in the chicken and pasta.
- Shredded Cheddar or Mozzarella – Melts into the pasta to create a luscious, cheesy coating.
- Butter & Olive Oil – Keeps the chicken moist and gives the sauce richness.
- Milk or Heavy Cream – Forms the creamy base for the cheese sauce.
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a pop of freshness.
How To Make Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Slice the boneless chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Season generously with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Heat a skillet with butter and olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in milk or heavy cream, then slowly add shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for a subtle warmth.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rotini to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat every spiral in cheesy goodness. Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the cheesy pasta to a serving platter and top with the sliced garlic parmesan chicken. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra dusting of parmesan for the perfect finishing touch.
Serving and Storing Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This hearty pasta dinner is best enjoyed hot, right off the stove when the cheese is at its meltiest and the chicken is perfectly juicy. Serve it straight from the skillet for a family-style meal or plate it individually for a polished presentation.
For storing leftovers, allow the pasta and chicken to cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to revive the creaminess before microwaving or warming on the stove.
What to Serve With Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
1. Garlic Bread
Warm, buttery garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad
A crisp, tangy salad balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or zucchini for a healthy, colorful side.
4. Caprese Salad
Tomato, basil, and mozzarella add freshness and a light bite.
5. Steamed Asparagus
Simple and elegant, it pairs beautifully with the cheesy pasta.
6. Bruschetta
A crunchy tomato-topped appetizer that adds vibrant flavor.
7. Creamy Coleslaw
The tangy crunch makes a fun contrast to the warm pasta.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you might also enjoy these comforting pasta creations from our kitchen:
- Smoky BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pasta Skillet
- Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine
- Ultimate One-Pan Creamy Honey Butter Steak Pasta
- Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Save This Pin For Later
Keep this irresistible pasta dinner at your fingertips by saving it to your favorite Pinterest board.
Did you try it with a twist, maybe an extra sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika? Share your creative spins in the comments!
Need more daily inspiration? Explore my kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes and discover your next family favorite.
Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner
Equipment
- Large pot
- skillet
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and a sprinkle of parmesan.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked, 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and gradually whisk in cheddar and parmesan until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add the cooked rotini to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Top the pasta with sliced garlic parmesan chicken, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.