If you’re in the mood for comfort food that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate dinner win. Juicy, golden-seared chicken meets twirly rotini pasta, all wrapped in a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite. The aroma alone will have your family racing to the dinner table!

This dish strikes that perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. It’s hearty without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or you’re hosting a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction with every forkful.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

To pull off this dreamy chicken and pasta dish, having the right tools makes the job smoother and the flavors shine:

Cast Iron or Heavy Skillet: Essential for achieving that deep golden sear on the chicken. It locks in moisture and gives unbeatable flavor.
Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: Perfect for cooking the rotini and blending the Parmesan sauce evenly.
Tongs: Makes flipping the chicken a breeze and helps with tossing the pasta later.

Microplane or Cheese Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan makes a huge difference in taste and texture.
Whisk: Crucial for blending the sauce smoothly without lumps.

With these kitchen MVPs in hand, your cooking process will feel effortless and the end result—totally irresistible.

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

Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The protein foundation of this dish, tender and flavorful when seared.
Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfying.
Garlic (Freshly Minced): Brings the aromatic base and signature flavor to the butter sauce.

Unsalted Butter: Acts as the rich base of the garlic butter sauce.
Heavy Cream: Adds silkiness and depth to the sauce.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, creating that luxurious, cheesy coating.

Italian Seasoning: A blend that boosts the flavor of the chicken and sauce.
Salt and Cracked Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate all other flavors.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and fresh finish.

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

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high and sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Set aside and slice before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook rotini until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream and stir. Simmer gently, then add Parmesan cheese while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine It All

Toss the cooked rotini into the sauce, using reserved pasta water to loosen if needed. Add sliced chicken back into the skillet and mix gently to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving hot.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini

Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted veggies. Garlic bread on the side? Yes, please.

To store leftovers, transfer the chicken and pasta to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish lighter?

Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Just note, the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine can work beautifully—just aim for a shape that holds sauce well.

What protein substitutes work in this recipe?

Shrimp or tofu are great alternatives to chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

You can, but freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and enhance the flavor more noticeably.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting grainy?

Add cheese slowly over low heat while whisking. Avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. The texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce stole your heart, here are more chicken favorites to explore:

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a restaurant-style twist.

Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a set-it-and-forget-it dinner.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for rich and bold flavors.
One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini for a creamy, herby combo.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you’re in the mood for cheesy indulgence.

Save This Recipe for Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use chicken breasts or thighs? Add extra herbs or a little spice? I’d love to hear your take.

Your feedback helps us all become better home cooks—so don’t be shy!

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a flavorful, comforting dish featuring golden-seared chicken and spiral pasta wrapped in a silky Parmesan cream sauce. It’s an easy yet impressive meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken until golden and cooked through.
Remove and slice. In a large pot, cook rotini in salted boiling water until al dente.