This Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Imagine creamy, cheesy rotini pasta twirled around your fork and juicy, herb-seasoned chicken bites melting in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe brings the kind of warmth that only a hearty pasta meal can deliver.

What makes this dish so crave-worthy is the irresistible blend of buttery garlic, perfectly seared chicken, and rotini that holds onto every drop of that rich, creamy cheese sauce. With each bite, you’ll taste layers of flavor that make this pasta dinner feel indulgent yet totally approachable.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment)

Before you dive into cooking this flavorful meal, make sure your kitchen is armed with the right tools:

Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan: Essential for achieving that beautiful golden crust on your chicken.
Large pot: For boiling the rotini evenly and ensuring it’s cooked al dente.
Colander: To easily drain the pasta without losing any rotini to the sink.

Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Great for mixing your cheese sauce gently without scratching cookware.
Meat thermometer: Optional but helpful to ensure your chicken hits that safe and juicy 165°F mark.

Each tool helps streamline the process, reduce cleanup, and produce professional-level results. The right skillet gives you that restaurant-worthy sear, and a well-sized pot prevents your pasta from sticking. Using the right tools ensures a smooth, stress-free cooking experience.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Let’s talk about what brings this creamy, savory pasta dish to life. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this recipe not just tasty, but unforgettable.

Rotini Pasta: Its spiral shape is perfect for catching all that luscious cheese sauce.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean and juicy, they absorb all the garlicky, herby goodness.

Olive Oil: Helps create that golden sear on the chicken and builds the flavor base.
Garlic (minced): The flavor hero. It deepens the taste and gives it that restaurant-style kick.
Butter: Adds richness to both the sauce and the chicken.

Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its creamy, luxurious body.
Shredded Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: A dreamy combo for meltability and sharpness.
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Brings in that salty, nutty edge and ties it all together.

Italian Seasoning: Lends a balanced blend of herbs that complements the chicken beautifully.
Salt and Black Pepper: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and freshness on top.

How To Make the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rotini to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat. Add the chicken back to the skillet and stir until everything is evenly mixed and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan. Serve immediately while it’s hot and cheesy.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This cheesy pasta dish is best served fresh and hot—straight from the skillet onto your plate. Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery garlic bread for a full, satisfying meal. It’s a star on its own, but it also plays well with others at your dinner table.

For leftovers, allow everything to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life and prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the microwave or gently warm it in a skillet over low heat.

Freezing is possible but best avoided if you want to keep the creamy texture. Cheese sauces tend to separate when frozen and thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Grate your own cheese if possible and avoid pre-shredded mixes that contain anti-caking agents. Also, keep the heat low while adding cheese to prevent separation.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or shells work well too—anything that can hold onto that rich cheese sauce.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich. For an extra creamy result, add a small bit of cream cheese.

Is this dish spicy?

Nope! But if you’re into heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the components (cook the pasta, sear the chicken, and make the sauce) ahead of time, then combine and reheat just before serving for best texture.

What cheese works best here?

A mix of sharp cheddar, melty mozzarella, and nutty parmesan gives the best flavor and texture combo for this dish.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting and flavor-packed meals:

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini for a sweet-savory twist.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese when you want everything in one pan.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for an extra indulgent bite.
Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta for a bold and tangy flavor punch.
One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta if you’re craving something hearty with a kick.

Looking for even more easy dinner ideas? Come hang out on my Pinterest where I share daily recipes: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

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Tried it already? Let me know how yours turned out in the comments. Did you toss in some veggies? Try a different cheese blend? Maybe added a touch of spice?

I absolutely love seeing your twists on my recipes. Share your questions or feedback—let’s cook smarter and tastier together!

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Creamy, cheesy rotini pasta tossed in a rich garlic parmesan sauce and topped with juicy, golden-seared chicken bites. This easy pasta dinner is the perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.