Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

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There’s something irresistible about a skillet meal that brings together tender chicken, buttery garlic, and pasta swirled in a velvety Parmesan sauce. This dish is the perfect mix of comfort food and weeknight convenience, ready in under an hour but bursting with flavors that taste like you’ve been cooking all day.

The creamy sauce clings to the spirals of rotini, soaking into every curve while juicy chicken pieces add hearty satisfaction. It’s the kind of dinner that makes you pause at the table, twirling your fork slowly just to savor the aroma before the first bite. Perfect for family nights, casual gatherings, or even a date-night dinner at home, this recipe earns a spot on your regular rotation.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

While rotini is a top choice because of its spiral design that holds onto the creamy Parmesan sauce, you can also substitute penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. The goal is to use a pasta shape with ridges or curves so that every bite captures the garlic butter richness and cheesy goodness.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

• Chicken breast or thighs – Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up the buttery sauce.
• Rotini pasta – The spiral texture locks in creamy flavors.
• Butter – Forms the base of the sauce, giving it depth and richness.
• Garlic – Brings aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with Parmesan.
• Parmesan cheese – Creates the creamy, nutty sauce that makes this dish shine.
• Heavy cream – Ensures a smooth, velvety consistency.
• Chicken broth – Adds savory depth and prevents the sauce from being overly heavy.
• Olive oil – Helps brown the chicken while keeping it moist.
• Italian seasoning – Adds subtle herb flavor to balance the richness.
• Salt and black pepper – Enhances and balances the overall taste.
• Fresh parsley – A touch of color and freshness to finish the dish.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring as the mixture comes together. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained rotini. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra grating of Parmesan. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce can separate.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness.

Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, and broccoli roasted with olive oil and herbs pair beautifully.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with balsamic drizzle bring a light contrast.

Steamed Asparagus

Adds a vibrant crunch and fresh green note to the meal.

Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a zesty starter.

White Wine

A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this skillet pasta, here are more comforting meals you’ll enjoy:

• Try this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for another creamy twist.
• For a Cajun kick, make the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet.
• Keep it cheesy with Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine.
• Cozy up with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy on chilly nights.
• Or enjoy the lighter freshness of Chicken Spinach and Mushroom One-Pan.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this comforting pasta idea to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily make it again anytime.

Did you add your own twist—maybe some sun-dried tomatoes or a pinch of chili flakes? Share how it turned out in the comments, I’d love to hear!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite dish is waiting there.

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