Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rotini, this recipe is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The standout qualities of this dish include the richness of the cheese combined with the aromatic garlic, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, cheese, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion—from casual family dinners to special gatherings.
• Creamy Texture: The velvety Alfredo sauce coats every bite of rotini for a satisfying experience.
• Easy Clean-Up: One skillet cooking means less time washing dishes after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this creamy delight, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently without crowding.
• Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing chicken and making the sauce seamlessly.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta effectively while retaining some water for the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 10 oz rotini pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Reserved pasta water (as needed)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until sauce is thick, glossy, and smooth. If needed, add reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.

Step 5: Toss Pasta with Sauce

Add cooked rotini into the sauce and mix until every twist is coated in cheesy Alfredo goodness. Let simmer on low heat for another 2 minutes to absorb flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Plate your dish by spooning creamy rotini on one side of the plate while arranging seared garlic butter Cajun chicken on the other side. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

Serving Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo is about creating a satisfying and delicious meal experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your presentation and flavor profile.

On a Beautiful Plate

• Aesthetic appeal: Use a large, white plate to highlight the creamy texture of the dish.
• Separation style: Place the creamy rotini on one side and the seared chicken on the other for an inviting look.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan: A light dusting of grated Parmesan adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a perfect combination with the creamy sauce.
• Baguette slices: Offer sliced baguette to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

With a Refreshing Salad

• Simple green salad: A mix of greens dressed lightly can balance out the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
• Caesar salad: This classic choice pairs well with the flavors of creamy garlic chicken.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor compared to jarred options. Always opt for fresh herbs when possible.
• Don’t rush cooking: Allow enough time for each step, especially when searing chicken. Proper browning adds depth to flavors.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning according to your preferences after tasting.
• Pasta texture matters: Cook rotini al dente; this will enhance its texture in combination with the creamy sauce.
• Reserve pasta water wisely: Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps adjust sauce consistency without making it too runny.
• Experiment with cheeses: If desired, substitute different cheeses like gouda or fontina for unique flavors in your Alfredo.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

Complement your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets tossed in olive oil, garlic, and roasted until crispy make a nutritious pairing.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds freshness and crunch.
3. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that is creamy and buttery, perfect alongside your dish.
4. Caprese Salad: Layered tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add a healthy twist while complementing the rich pasta dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad mixed with diced vegetables provides a wholesome accompaniment that balances flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying out new recipes. Here are some common mistakes to watch for while making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken well before cooking to enhance its taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rotini for too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Neglecting the sauce consistency: If the Alfredo sauce is too thick or too thin, it won’t coat the pasta well. Adjust with reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Rushing the garlic: Cooking garlic too quickly can burn it, resulting in a bitter flavor. Sauté it gently until fragrant but not browned.
• Not letting flavors meld: Skipping the simmering step after combining the pasta and sauce can prevent flavors from blending. Allowing it to simmer ensures a deliciously rich dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Good for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight dinner option.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavor profiles.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo?

Certainly! Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different proteins according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo is a comforting dish that perfectly blends tender chicken, delicious rotini pasta, and a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. This quick 30-minute recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The aromatic garlic and the savory mixture of cheeses create a mouthwatering experience that will delight your taste buds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 10 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• Cajun seasoning
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook rotini in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown; remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant.
4. Add heavy cream and stir in Velveeta cubes until melted; then mix in mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Toss cooked rotini with the Alfredo sauce until well coated; simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Serve by plating creamy rotini alongside seared chicken; garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing, Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 130mg