Description
Looking for the ultimate weeknight dinner? This *Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken* is the kind of dish that brings the family running to the table. With tender rotini pasta, juicy garlic-seasoned chicken, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it’s everything comfort food should be—quick, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re searching for *easy dinner ideas*, *quick pasta recipes*, or *cheesy food ideas*, this dish checks every box. Perfect for busy nights or laid-back weekends, it’s a *quick dinner* that tastes like you spent hours cooking. Great for *meal prep*, *leftovers*, or even a cozy *date-night dinner at home*.
Ingredients
16 oz rotini pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter, divided
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and stir. Gradually add parmesan and mozzarella, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
6. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
7. Return chicken to skillet, then add cooked rotini. Toss everything to coat evenly.
8. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley if using. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest, smoothest sauce.
Don’t overcook the chicken—remove it as soon as it’s done to keep it juicy.
Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: easy dinner, cheesy pasta, garlic chicken, comfort food, quick meal, pasta dinner, rotini recipe, creamy chicken pasta