Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rotini with Garlic Herb Alfredo

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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rotini with Garlic Herb Alfredo

Introduction

If you’re craving a rich, creamy pasta dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rotini with Garlic Herb Alfredo is exactly what you need. Tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked rotini, and a luscious garlic herb Alfredo sauce make every bite irresistible. Quick to prepare and full of cheesy goodness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you simply want a decadent pasta meal at home.

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

  • 12 oz rotini pasta

  • 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1 — Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 — Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3 — Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining butter in the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth and starting to thicken.

Step 4 — Add the Cheeses

Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Lower the heat and add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the sauce is thick, creamy, and fully combined.

Step 5 — Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken and any juices to the skillet. Add the cooked rotini and toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in the creamy garlic herb Alfredo sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6 — Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, and serve immediately.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 35 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Tips & Tricks

  • Cheese Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, smoother sauce.

  • Chicken: Cut into even pieces to ensure it cooks uniformly.

  • Make Ahead: You can prep the sauce while the pasta cooks for faster weeknight assembly.

  • Add Veggies: Broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes can be stirred in for added nutrition and color.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rotini with Garlic Herb Alfredo is a quick, indulgent meal that brings comfort and flavor to the table. The creamy garlic herb sauce perfectly coats the tender chicken and rotini, making it a family favorite in no time. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight yet special enough to impress anyone at the dinner table.