Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce

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Golden, seared chicken bites seasoned with herbs and garlic butter, paired with creamy, cheesy Alfredo-coated rotini pasta—it’s a match made in dinner heaven. The dish offers a harmonious balance between crispy, juicy protein and silky, cheese-laden pasta that wraps around each forkful like a comfort blanket. Every bite is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying, thanks to the golden crust on the chicken and the luscious creaminess of the Alfredo sauce.

This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken is one of those foolproof meals that looks fancy but is incredibly simple to make. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you crave something indulgent yet homemade. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself after a long day, this dish offers both ease and indulgence.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

• One Pan for the Chicken, One Pot for the Pasta – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Ready in Under 40 Minutes – Quick enough for busy nights, elegant enough for guests.
• Flavor Explosion – From the garlic butter chicken to the velvety cheese sauce, every element is packed with taste.
• Kid & Crowd Friendly – Creamy pasta and juicy chicken are universally loved.
• Customizable – Swap pasta shapes or cheeses, or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Before diving into the magic of cooking, a little prep goes a long way to ensure everything flows smoothly in the kitchen. This dish is straightforward, but having the right tools at hand can make the process faster, cleaner, and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Non-stick Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection without sticking or tearing.
• Large Pot: Needed to boil the rotini pasta evenly and give it enough space to cook without clumping.
• Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently.
• Mixing Bowls: To season the chicken and mix ingredients without mess.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps stir the Alfredo sauce smoothly without scratching the pan.
• Tongs: Great for flipping chicken pieces evenly during searing.
• Whisk: Crucial for achieving a lump-free, silky Alfredo sauce.
• Grater: If using fresh cheese, a grater ensures it melts quickly into the sauce.

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Preparation Tips

• Prep All Ingredients First: Dice your chicken, measure spices, shred cheese, and portion butter and cream before heating anything. It speeds up the process and avoids mistakes.
• Dry the Chicken: Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning ensures a crispy sear instead of a soggy steam.
• Salt Your Pasta Water Generously: It’s your only chance to flavor the pasta from the inside out.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Boil it until al dente—slightly firm to the bite—so it doesn’t turn mushy once mixed with the sauce.
• Use Room Temp Butter & Cream: It helps the Alfredo sauce come together more smoothly without curdling or separating.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the seared chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing or serving—it locks in the juices.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a splash to the Alfredo sauce helps it cling beautifully to the rotini.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this flavor-packed dish. The ingredients are divided into two components: the garlic butter chicken and the cheesy Alfredo pasta. All quantities serve approximately 4 people.

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For the Golden Garlic Butter Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness at the end)

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For the Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta:

• 12 oz rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp dried basil (for garnish)
• Splash of reserved pasta water (optional, for adjusting sauce consistency)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Let’s bring this dish to life with clear, simple steps. We’ll begin with the chicken, then move on to the pasta and Alfredo sauce. Follow along and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on your plate in no time.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.

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Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, toss the diced chicken with olive oil, paprika, oregano, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly.

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Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, then add the chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
3. Let the chicken sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
4. Add the minced garlic and remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté for another minute until aromatic.
5. Optional: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the chicken and stir. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer—do not boil.
4. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella, whisking until completely melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the drained rotini to the Alfredo sauce.
2. Toss gently to coat every spiral in creamy cheese sauce.
3. Sprinkle dried basil over the top and mix lightly.

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Step 6: Plate and Serve

1. On each plate, spoon a generous portion of cheesy Alfredo pasta on one side.
2. Add a scoop of golden garlic butter chicken on the other side.
3. Garnish with extra herbs or Parmesan if desired, and serve hot.

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Notes

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your Alfredo sauce gritty. Grate fresh Parmesan and mozzarella for the best texture and flavor.
• Cook Chicken in Batches if Needed: Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. For crispy edges and golden color, give the pieces space.
• Control the Heat for the Sauce: Alfredo sauce can break if cooked on high heat. Keep it at a gentle simmer and stir often for a silky, lump-free texture.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Boiling the Alfredo Sauce: High heat can cause the cream to separate and the cheese to become clumpy. Always keep the sauce at a low simmer.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Soft, mushy pasta won’t hold up to the creamy sauce. Stick to al dente for perfect texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cream can shock the pan and create a broken sauce. Let them sit at room temp before cooking if possible.
• Skipping the Rest Time for Chicken: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving helps it retain its juices and stay tender.
• Adding All Cheese at Once: Dumping all the cheese into the cream at once can cause clumps. Add it gradually and stir continuously.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is magic for adjusting sauce thickness and helping it cling to pasta. Always save a little before draining.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken?

This dish is rich, creamy, and savory—so pairing it with lighter, fresh, or contrasting side dishes can balance the meal beautifully. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet dinner, these additions can elevate your table spread.

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8 Delicious Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   Perfect for scooping up that leftover Alfredo sauce on your plate.
2. Crisp Caesar Salad
   The crunchy romaine, tangy dressing, and Parmesan shavings provide a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Steamed or Roasted Broccoli
   A nutrient-packed green veggie that complements the richness without overwhelming the dish.
4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer brightness and acidity.
5. Lemon-Garlic Green Beans
   Quick to sauté and bring a zesty, garlicky crunch that balances the meal.
6. Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan
   Earthy and elegant, asparagus pairs beautifully with Alfredo-based pastas.
7. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
   Their slightly bitter flavor and sweet glaze cut through the richness of the sauce.
8. A Glass of White Wine or Sparkling Water with Lemon
   For drinks, pair it with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a simple citrusy sparkling water to cleanse the palate.

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Storage Instructions

Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken is just as satisfying the next day—if stored properly. Here’s how to keep it fresh and creamy:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Keep the chicken and pasta together, as they reheat well side-by-side.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too, just stir halfway through and avoid overcooking.
• Freezing (Not Ideal): Due to the high dairy content in Alfredo sauce, freezing can cause separation or grainy texture. If you must freeze, do so in individual portions and reheat slowly with added cream or butter to revive the sauce.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can cook the chicken 1 day in advance and store it separately. Cook the pasta and sauce fresh for best results.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — based on 4 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	740 kcal
Protein	42 g
Carbohydrates	52 g
Dietary Fiber	3 g
Sugars	3 g
Total Fat	42 g
Saturated Fat	23 g
Unsaturated Fat	17 g
Trans Fat	0 g
Cholesterol	155 mg
Sodium	620 mg

Note: Values are estimates and can vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While rotini works great for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just aim for a pasta that holds creamy sauces well.

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2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use a combination of whole milk and a bit of butter (about 1 cup milk + 2 tablespoons butter) as a substitute. The sauce won’t be as rich, but still delicious.

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3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free. The core recipe itself contains gluten.

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4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes are excellent additions. Stir them into the sauce before combining with the pasta.

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5. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Definitely. Just shred or cube the chicken and warm it in the garlic butter before proceeding to the pasta step. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

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6. Can I make it less cheesy?

Yes. Reduce the mozzarella or Parmesan by half, or use a lighter cheese like Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper, less creamy flavor.

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7. What can I do if my Alfredo sauce becomes too thick?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk and stir gently over low heat until it loosens up to your liking.

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8. Is this dish good for meal prep?

It works well if you store it in individual containers and reheat with added cream or broth to revive the sauce. Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken is more than just a comfort food—it’s a creamy, savory, crowd-pleasing experience that comes together in under an hour. With crispy, garlicky chicken and rich Alfredo-coated rotini, this dish delivers both visual appeal and indulgent flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe checks every box.

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