Description
Craving an easy dinner idea that feels like a restaurant meal but comes together in under an hour? This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce is your new go-to! Perfectly seared golden chicken tossed in garlic butter is served alongside rotini pasta drenched in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce made with cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella. It’s one of the best food ideas for those wanting a quick dinner that’s indulgent, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hunting for easy recipes for family nights, dinner ideas that impress, or simply comfort food at its finest, this dish checks all the boxes for a cozy and delicious win.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts diced into bite-sized chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for chicken)
4 cloves garlic minced (for chicken)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 0.5 lemon (optional)
12 ounces rotini pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for Alfredo)
3 cloves garlic minced (for Alfredo)
1.5 cups heavy cream
1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
0.5 teaspoon dried basil
Splash of reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, toss diced chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, oregano, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
4. Add minced garlic and the second tablespoon of butter to the pan. Stir until fragrant, then squeeze lemon juice if using. Remove chicken from heat and set aside.
5. In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil).
7. Gradually stir in Parmesan and mozzarella, whisking until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
8. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.
9. Add drained rotini pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
10. Sprinkle in dried basil and mix lightly.
11. Serve the pasta with garlic butter chicken on the side or mixed in. Garnish with extra herbs or cheese, and enjoy hot.
Notes
For the best sauce texture, always use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
If storing for later, reheat gently with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 620
- Fat: 42
- Saturated Fat: 23
- Unsaturated Fat: 17
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 42
- Cholesterol: 155
Keywords: easy dinner, cheesy pasta, chicken alfredo, garlic butter chicken, pasta ideas