Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is one of those comforting dishes that feels both indulgent and surprisingly easy to prepare. I often turn to this recipe on busy evenings when I want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender chicken, coated in rich garlic butter, pairs beautifully with rotini pasta that traps the creamy Parmesan sauce in every spiral. I tested this recipe with both fresh and pre-grated Parmesan, and freshly grated cheese truly elevates the sauce, making it silkier and more flavorful. This dish strikes the perfect balance between savory depth and creamy comfort, making it suitable for family dinners or casual entertaining. Best of all, it uses simple pantry ingredients and straightforward techniques, yet the final result tastes like something you would order at a cozy Italian-inspired restaurant.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast is the protein base of this recipe. I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and a tender texture throughout the dish.

Rotini pasta works perfectly because its twisted shape holds onto the Parmesan sauce. You can substitute other short pasta, but rotini gives the best sauce coverage.

Butter forms the foundation of the sauce. It adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor evenly through the dish.

Garlic cloves provide the signature aroma and depth. Freshly minced garlic is essential here, as it infuses the butter with bold, savory notes.

Heavy cream creates the luxurious, velvety base of the Parmesan sauce. It balances the sharpness of the cheese and garlic.

Parmesan cheese brings saltiness and umami. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and prevents a grainy sauce.

Olive oil is used alongside butter to sear the chicken, preventing the butter from burning while adding subtle fruitiness.

Italian seasoning enhances the overall flavor with a blend of herbs that complement both chicken and cheese.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and balancing the richness of the sauce.

Fresh parsley adds a final touch of color and freshness that brightens the dish before serving.

Directions

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the remaining butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown. Pour in the heavy cream and gently simmer, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened.

Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked rotini. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people comfortably. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, while cooking requires about 25 minutes. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in around 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid high heat, as it may cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. For a lighter version, I have successfully substituted half-and-half for heavy cream, which still delivers a creamy texture with fewer calories. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and color. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick without overpowering the garlic butter flavor. For a richer, more indulgent dish, mixing in a small amount of cream cheese creates an even thicker sauce. I have also tried this recipe with grilled chicken thighs, which adds a slightly deeper, juicier flavor profile.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and calcium from the Parmesan cheese. While it is indulgent due to the butter and cream, portion control and pairing with a fresh salad can help balance the meal. It is best suited for those without dairy restrictions.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a tender bite.

Smooth Parmesan Sauce
Always add the cheese gradually over low heat to prevent clumping or separation.

Pasta Water Magic
Reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency while maintaining flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne or fusilli work well, though rotini holds the sauce best.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be prepared a few hours ahead and gently reheated.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the sauce will be lighter.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Cream-based sauces do not freeze well, so freezing is not recommended.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, add it during the final steps to avoid overcooking.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Keep the heat low and stir continuously when adding cheese.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Spinach, broccoli, or peas are excellent additions.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it is mild, but spice can be added if desired.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

What pairs well with this dish?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement it nicely.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a reliable, comforting recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Its creamy texture, savory garlic notes, and tender chicken make it a crowd-pleasing favorite that I return to again and again. Whether prepared for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress while remaining simple and satisfying.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!