Lorenzo Devereaux
When you crave a comforting dinner that’s both indulgent and simple, nothing beats a plate of cheesy rotini paired with juicy garlic parmesan chicken. The tender chicken is seared to golden perfection, drizzled with a rich garlic herb butter, and served alongside rotini pasta coated in creamy melted cheese. Every bite is the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and garlicky goodness.
This dish is a weeknight hero—hearty enough for the whole family but elegant enough to serve at a cozy weekend dinner. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, leaving everyone eager to grab a fork. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can bring a restaurant-quality pasta dinner straight to your table.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?
Rotini pasta is the star here because its spirals trap all the cheesy sauce and herbs beautifully, giving you flavor in every bite. You can swap it with fusilli, penne, or even cavatappi if that’s what you have in your pantry—but rotini remains my favorite for that perfect cheesy coating.
Ingredients for the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner
- Chicken breasts – Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up the garlic butter.
- Olive oil and butter – The secret to a golden sear and a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Fresh garlic – Adds that irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- Rotini pasta – Spiral pasta that clings to all the cheesy goodness.
- Heavy cream – For a luscious, creamy cheese sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Salty and nutty, it defines the pasta’s flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese – For that gooey, melty finish.
- Fresh parsley – A bright, fresh touch that balances the richness.
- Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that bring everything to life.
How To Make the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain, reserving a half cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Gradually whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Toss the cooked rotini in the cheesy garlic sauce until coated. Slice the chicken breasts and arrange them over the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while warm, allowing the gooey cheese and garlicky chicken to take center stage on your dinner table.
Serving and Storing Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This creamy, cheesy pasta is best served immediately, while the cheese is perfectly melted and the chicken is still juicy. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
What to Serve With Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
1. Garlic Bread
The buttery, crispy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad
The crunch of romaine and the tangy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
A crisp vegetable side that complements the cheesy flavors beautifully.
4. Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a refreshing, vibrant contrast.
5. Bruschetta
Light and tangy, this toasted bread appetizer is a great starter for this hearty meal.
6. Creamy Tomato Soup
Dipping garlic bread into this soup alongside the pasta makes a cozy dinner.
7. Lemon Roasted Asparagus
A bright, citrusy vegetable that cuts through the creamy richness of the dish.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you love this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, here are some other pasta recipes from ChefAlchemy you’ll enjoy:
- Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a rich, meaty option.
- Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you want a quick and hearty meal.
- Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a twist with veggies.
- Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for another gooey family favorite.
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe if you’re craving a creamy, romantic dinner.
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Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large pot
- Colander
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Cook rotini pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In the skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté garlic 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and simmer 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Toss pasta in sauce until coated. Slice chicken and serve on top of the cheesy rotini. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.