Quick Overview
If you’re seeking an easy yet indulgent dish to impress your family or guests, look no further than this creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini in Parmesan sauce. This recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a rich, savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its comforting flavors and creamy texture, it’s a wonderful option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into the ingredients and learn how to whip up this delicious meal.
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken Breast
For this recipe, you will need 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound). Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, making it perfect for this creamy dish. Slice the breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Rotini Pasta
You will require 8 ounces of rotini pasta. This spiral-shaped pasta holds sauces beautifully, allowing every bite to be filled with flavor. Cook it al dente for the best texture in the final dish.
Garlic
Four cloves of fresh garlic will infuse the dish with robust flavor. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it blends well into the sauce. Fresh garlic adds a lovely aroma and depth that enhances the overall taste of the meal.
Butter
Use 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to create a rich base for the sauce. The butter adds creaminess and richness while helping to sauté the garlic and chicken to golden perfection.
Heavy Cream
One cup of heavy cream contributes to the luxurious texture of the sauce. It balances out the flavors beautifully and creates that signature creaminess that makes this dish so comforting.
Parmesan Cheese
You’ll need 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish. Choose high-quality cheese for maximum flavor. This ingredient not only enhances taste but also thickens the sauce as it melts.
Seasonings
A combination of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (about 1 teaspoon each) will elevate all flavors in this dish. These seasonings add depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Step By Step Recipe: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta but reserve about ½ cup of cooking water for later use if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add diced chicken breast pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once your chicken is cooked through, reduce heat slightly and add minced garlic (4 cloves) to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant but careful not to burn it as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in one cup of heavy cream into your skillet with cooked chicken and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients before bringing it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. This helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
Gradually stir in one cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese while continuously mixing until fully melted and incorporated into your sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached—thick yet pourable.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add your drained rotini directly into the skillet with your creamy garlic butter sauce mixture. Toss everything gently using tongs or a spatula until all noodles are coated evenly with that delicious creamy goodness.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini immediately after cooking for optimal flavor and texture. You can garnish each plate with extra grated Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and visual appeal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through—add a splash of milk or cream if needed to revive creaminess.
This creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini in Parmesan sauce is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every satisfying bite!
Tips and Tricks
To achieve maximum flavor in your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce, consider marinating your chicken beforehand. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper will infuse your chicken with rich flavors. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step adds depth to your dish and makes it more delicious.
When making the parmesan sauce, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties. Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives you a creamier texture without any grittiness that often comes with pre-packaged cheeses. Combine it with heavy cream and butter over low heat for an indulgent sauce that coats every piece of rotini beautifully.
Incorporate vegetables into your recipe for added nutrition and flavor. Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes work wonderfully in this dish and complement both the creamy sauce and chicken perfectly. Sauté them briefly with garlic before adding them to the sauce; this way, they retain their color and nutrients while enhancing the overall appeal of your meal.
Consider garnishing your finished dish with fresh basil or parsley for an appealing presentation. Not only does this add a pop of color, but fresh herbs also elevate the flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper also enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
Don’t rush through the cooking process; take your time to allow flavors to meld together properly. Cook on medium-low heat when making sauces so that they can thicken without burning or separating. Patience during this phase results in a richer taste experience that will impress everyone at the dinner table.
Summary
In summary, achieving perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rotini in Parmesan Sauce involves avoiding common mistakes like overcooking pasta or neglecting seasoning at each stage while implementing helpful tips such as marinating chicken beforehand and using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties enhances overall flavor profiles significantly! Consider suggestions like experimenting with different proteins or opting healthier pasta options too—all these methods contribute towards creating an unforgettable dining experience anyone would enjoy thoroughly!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Rotini Recipe
Description
If you’re seeking an easy yet indulgent dish to impress your family or guests, look no further than this creamy garlic butter chicken & rotini in Parmesan sauce. This recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a rich, savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its comforting flavors and creamy texture, it’s a wonderful option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into the ingredients and learn how to whip up this delicious meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast
- Rotini Pasta
- Garlic
- Butter
- Heavy Cream
- Parmesan Cheese
- Seasonings