If you’re in search of a delightful, comforting meal that can be prepared quickly, look no further than this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken. This easy pasta dinner combines juicy, perfectly seasoned garlic chicken with creamy rotini pasta and an irresistible blend of melted cheeses. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it also offers that warm, cozy feeling that makes it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.
The appeal lies in its simplicity and ability to please everyone at the dinner table. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly straightforward to make. With a one-skillet approach, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone simply looking for quick culinary ideas, this cheesy pasta creation is bound to become a staple in your repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be crafted in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Skillet Meal: With everything cooked in one skillet, it simplifies both preparation and cleanup.
- Rich and Creamy: A delicious blend of cheeses and creamy sauce results in an irresistibly rich flavor profile.
- Kid-Friendly: Its cheesy goodness and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile for Meal Prep: Great for batch cooking or prepping meals ahead of time for busy weeks.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the deliciousness of Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Start by clearing your countertops and ensuring you have enough space to work efficiently. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce.
Key tools for this recipe include:
- Large Pot: To cook the rotini pasta perfectly al dente.
- Skillet: To cook the chicken and create the creamy cheese sauce.
- Whisk: Essential for making the sauce without lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements lead to delicious results.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1.5 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest, as this starchy water can help adjust the consistency of your sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Start by seasoning your boneless and skinless chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. For an extra layer of flavor, toss the seasoned chicken in grated Parmesan cheese. If you’d like a nice crunch, coat the chicken lightly in breadcrumbs as well. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, and then add the chicken. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat slightly and add butter. Allow the butter to melt before whisking in the flour. Continue whisking for about one minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk or heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. It should have a creamy consistency—this is the base of your sauce. Next, reduce the heat further and stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, alongside garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Mix until the cheese completely melts and everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce and toss everything gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired creaminess is achieved. Slice the cooked chicken and place it atop the cheese-covered pasta. Give it a gentle mix to combine, ensuring that every bite has a little piece of chicken and cheese.
Step 5: Final Touches
Finally, sprinkle some extra cheese on top of the assembled dish. Cover the skillet for about 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt further. Once melted, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor, and then serve hot. Everyone will love digging into this creamy, cheesy masterpiece!
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, diced beef, or even diced tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrients and color.
- Spices: Experiment with adding Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs for different flavor notes.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente ensures it maintains a good texture even after mixing with the sauce.
- For a lower-calorie version, substitute whole milk with skim or almond milk and use less cheese.
- If preparing for meal prep, store chicken and pasta separately to maintain optimal texture when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian experience.
- A fresh garden salad complements this dish well, adding freshness and crunch.
Tips
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for an hour before cooking.
- Adjust the cheese amounts to suit your taste; this dish is highly customizable when it comes to cheese.
- Consider sprinkling some fresh basil or oregano on top as a finishing touch to elevate the dish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 680 per serving
- Protein: 42g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute traditional rotini with gluten-free pasta and follow the recipe as is.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce, or toss in some diced jalapenos for an extra kick.
What can I serve with Cheesy Rotini?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove with a bit of extra milk to keep it creamy.
Conclusion
Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for busy evenings or when you’re simply craving comfort food, this recipe is designed to please the entire family without taking hours in the kitchen. With creamy textures, delightful flavors, and the perfect balance of cheese and chicken, this dish is bound to impress.
Whether you choose to follow the recipe as it is or make a few tweaks of your own, don’t hesitate to share your experience and variations in the comments. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of cheesy goodness!
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Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a warm hug on a plate!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1.5 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest, as this starchy water can help adjust the consistency of your sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
- While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Start by seasoning your boneless and skinless chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. For an extra layer of flavor, toss the seasoned chicken in grated Parmesan cheese. If you’d like a nice crunch, coat the chicken lightly in breadcrumbs as well. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, and then add the chicken. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat slightly and add butter. Allow the butter to melt before whisking in the flour. Continue whisking for about one minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk or heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. It should have a creamy consistency—this is the base of your sauce. Next, reduce the heat further and stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, alongside garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Mix until the cheese completely melts and everything is well combined.
- Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce and toss everything gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired creaminess is achieved. Slice the cooked chicken and place it atop the cheese-covered pasta. Give it a gentle mix to combine, ensuring that every bite has a little piece of chicken and cheese.
- Finally, sprinkle some extra cheese on top of the assembled dish. Cover the skillet for about 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt further. Once melted, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor, and then serve hot.
Notes
Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente ensures it maintains a good texture even after mixing with the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 680 per serving
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 42 g