If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Indulgent Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s a rich and comforting meal that brings together perfectly cooked rotini pasta smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, paired with tender garlic-parmesan infused chicken. Every bite delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that feels both decadent and homey, making it an ideal dinner for weeknights or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, high-quality ingredients — each one plays a crucial role in building layers of deliciousness. From the al dente rotini pasta to the luscious cheeses and fragrant garlic, these ingredients come together effortlessly to create a memorable meal.
- 8 oz Rotini Pasta: Its spiral shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully for maximum flavor in every forkful.
- 2 pieces Boneless Chicken Breasts: Chicken breast gives lean protein and soaks up the garlic and spices wonderfully.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to golden perfection and adding richness.
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter: Adds a silky depth to the sauce and helps cook the garlic gently.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key to infusing vibrant aroma and flavor that jarred can’t match.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlicky goodness, especially if you want an extra punch.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious base of the cheese sauce with silky smoothness.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides sharp cheesy notes while melting perfectly into the sauce.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds that signature nutty, savory depth that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1 tsp Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and earthiness.
- 1 tsp Paprika: Introduces a mild smokiness that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Indulgent Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a brisk boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it reaches al dente — tender but still with a slight bite. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside; this perfectly cooked base will soak up the creamy sauce later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, slice the boneless chicken breasts into strips. Then, season them generously with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This seasoning blend ensures every bite of chicken is bursting with flavor before it even hits the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. This will develop a golden, crispy exterior while locking in juicy tenderness. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm for plating later.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet (no need to waste those lovely browned bits), reduce the heat and sauté the freshly minced garlic until fragrant and golden but not burnt. Carefully pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Then add in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan, stirring continuously until the mixture transforms into a smooth, velvety sauce. Let it simmer gently until it thickens just right — creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained rotini pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything together over low heat to ensure each piece of pasta is luxuriously coated with that cheesy goodness. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce clings perfectly.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Plate the creamy rotini pasta generously, then arrange the golden garlic parmesan chicken strips on top. Finish with a sprinkle of bright, fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of fresh herbal flavor that rounds out this indulgent meal.
How to Serve Indulgent Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish further, fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a lovely green contrast and mild herbal brightness. You could also sprinkle extra grated parmesan or a few red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. A drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving can add a silky sheen and richness.
Side Dishes
This indulgent recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides to balance its richness. Consider a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, or even some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. These sides keep the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the cheesy rotini in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy texture and artistic chicken placement. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch. You could also portion the pasta into mini ramekins and top each with a chicken strip for a charming family-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and pasta together to preserve the sauce’s beautiful coating, but adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating can help maintain the creamy texture.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Freeze in a well-sealed container to prevent ice crystals, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent the cheese sauce from breaking. Adding a little milk or cream as it warms will help maintain creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can cause uneven heating and change the sauce’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal because its spirals trap the sauce so well, you can easily substitute with penne or fusilli. Just make sure to cook to al dente for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, with some swaps. Use a plant-based cream alternative and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan cheese. Vegan cheese shreds that melt well also work great for the cheddar substitute.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance and keep them refrigerated. Prepare the sauce fresh when ready to serve, then combine everything for optimal flavor and texture.
How spicy is the paprika in this dish?
The paprika adds a mild smoky warmth but is not overly spicy. If you want more kick, cayenne pepper is a great alternative or addition.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?
Reheat gently over low heat and cover the pan to trap moisture. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the chicken juicy during reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Indulgent Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Recipe is one of those deliciously undeniable comfort foods that will have you coming back for seconds every time. Simple to make but packed with flavor, it’s the perfect cozy meal to share with family or friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy all the creamy, garlicky goodness that makes this dish such a winner!
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Indulgent Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulgent Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dinner featuring perfectly cooked rotini pasta tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce paired with golden garlic-parmesan seasoned chicken strips. Ready in 30 minutes, this easy skillet recipe combines tender chicken and rich cheeses for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz Rotini Pasta (Can be swapped with penne or fusilli.)
Chicken
- 2 pieces Boneless Chicken Breasts (Thighs are a good substitute.)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Can be omitted if using fresh garlic.)
- 1 tsp Salt (Consider using kosher salt.)
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Paprika (Cayenne is a good spicy option.)
Cooking Fats and Oils
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Can swap with canola.)
- 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Margarine works too.)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced, avoid jarred.)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Use half-and-half for a lighter alternative.)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Mozzarella or cheese blend can substitute.)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can work for a vegan option.)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Basil or chives can also be used.)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the boneless chicken breasts into strips. Season the chicken evenly with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika to build a robust flavor base.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and unsalted butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm on a plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and sauté the freshly minced garlic until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained rotini pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it thoroughly with the cheesy sauce. Let it simmer together for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the Dish: Plate the creamy cheesy rotini and arrange the cooked garlic Parmesan chicken strips on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish before serving.
Notes
- To lighten the dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk-cream blend.
- For a spicier kick, replace paprika with cayenne pepper or add crushed red chili flakes.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Fresh garlic is essential for optimal flavor; avoid pre-minced jarred garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
