Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo

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Tried this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo and wow so rich, garlicky, and comforting! Perfect weeknight dinner in one pan. This dish is a delightful blend of creamy, savory flavors that come together quickly in a single skillet. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something cozy yet impressive.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one skillet.
  • Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic butter, cream, and Parmesan creates a luxurious taste.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and savory chicken.
  • Customizable: Add vegetables or swap proteins to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Pot
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet: Essential for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce.
  • Pot: Needed to boil the rotini pasta until perfectly al dente.
  • Colander: Useful for draining the cooked pasta without hassle.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 pound rotini pasta

For the Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make  Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Cook the rotini pasta until just tender (al dente), about 8-10 minutes.
* Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Make sure they’re well coated on all sides.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
* Melt the butter in the skillet.
* Add the seasoned chicken and sauté until browned and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.

Step 4: Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic.
Cook for about 1 minute until soft and aromatic; do not let it brown.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet.
Stir to combine.
Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer.
Add Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes.
Stir until cheese has melted completely, creating a silky sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Taste sauce; adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
Return cooked chicken and rotini pasta to the skillet.
Toss everything together until well coated in creamy garlic Alfredo sauce.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving.
Enjoy immediately while it’s hot and luscious!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo.

This creamy garlic butter chicken rotini Alfredo is not just a delightful main dish; it’s also versatile in how you can serve it. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

  • Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese complements the richness of the Alfredo.
  • Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

Add Extra Protein

  • Grilled Shrimp: Juicy grilled shrimp can be served on top for an extra protein boost and a seafood twist.
  • Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds nutrients and a vibrant pop of color alongside the creamy pasta.

Garnish Creatively

  • Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with extra parsley or basil for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.
  • Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the dish right before serving.

How to Perfect  Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo.

To make this dish truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create a standout meal every time.

  • Bold Seasoning: Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned before cooking. This enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and herbs to elevate the taste of your sauce significantly.
  • Pasta Timing: Cook the rotini just until al dente for the best texture. It will continue cooking when mixed with the hot sauce.
  • Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo.

Adding side dishes can elevate your meal and provide variety. Here are some great options that pair well with this creamy pasta dish.

  1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread slathered with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any extra Alfredo sauce.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
  3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle offers a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
  4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and balances out the richness of the dish.
  5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with creamy meals.
  6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness to round out your dinner experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking Tried this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

  • Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the rotini pasta too long can leave it mushy. Always cook until al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite.
  • Not Seasoning the Chicken: Failing to properly season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat it well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.
  • Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter if cooked too long. Sauté it just until fragrant, about one minute, to keep its flavor intact.
  • Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh parsley can diminish freshness. Always garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and color.
  • Rushing the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer too briefly may prevent it from thickening properly. Let it come to a gentle simmer so that it becomes rich and creamy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
  • Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Tried this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo and wow so rich, garlicky, and comforting! Perfect weeknight dinner in one pan.

  • Place in a freezer-safe container.
  • Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating  Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo.

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of cream or broth while reheating to maintain creaminess. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo so comforting?

This dish combines rich flavors from garlic butter and creamy sauce that make every bite satisfying and cozy.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While rotini works well for capturing sauce, you can substitute with penne or fettuccine as alternatives.

How can I customize Tried this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo?

You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different proteins.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for easy meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

Tried this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. We encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini Alfredo is a luscious weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a rich garlic cream sauce in one convenient skillet. This dish is not only quick to prepare—taking just 25 minutes—but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. With its creamy texture and savory notes, it’s an impressive meal that the entire family will enjoy. Perfect for busy evenings or any occasion when you want something delicious yet easy to make!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 pound rotini pasta
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook rotini pasta in salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté chicken until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet.
  4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes; stir until melted.
  6. Return chicken and pasta to the skillet; toss to coat in the sauce.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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