If you’re in search of a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on the flavor or comfort, look no further than Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce. This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings the essence of restaurant-quality meals right to your kitchen. Picture this: tender, golden-seared chicken lathered in rich garlic butter, paired with rotini pasta that soaks up every drop of a homemade Alfredo sauce that could make any cheese lover swoon. This dish is exactly what you need to satisfy your cravings for comfort food while keeping the cooking process super simple.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its indulgent yet straightforward approach to cooking. By using pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels luxurious without the fuss. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a special occasion, this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta will win over your family and friends alike. The combination of chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce beautifully melds together, creating a symphony of flavors that make this dish an instant favorite for any dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta
This dish is perfect for so many reasons:
- Rich Flavor: The creamy Alfredo sauce is a dream come true for cheese enthusiasts, offering a silky texture and robust flavor.
- Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe minimizes stress and maximizes taste.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for family meals, dinner parties, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space and gather the right tools. Start by ensuring you have a large pot for boiling the pasta and a skillet for cooking the chicken. A wooden spoon or spatula will be handy for stirring the sauce, and a whisk is perfect for achieving a creamy consistency in the Alfredo. Don’t forget to have a measuring cup and spoons for precision!
It’s worthwhile to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Chop the fresh parsley, mince the garlic, and cube the chicken ahead of time so that everything can flow smoothly during cooking. This will help you avoid any last-minute scrambles and ensure you create a beautiful, cohesive dish. Also, remember to have a colander ready for draining the pasta when it’s done cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will coat the chicken with flavorful spices that will elevate the overall taste of the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken cubes to the pan. Allow the chicken to cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until it is golden brown and cooked through. It’s important to let it develop that beautiful sear that enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter
To the skillet with the chicken, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with minced garlic. Stir to combine, letting the garlic infuse into the butter for about one minute. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the chicken aside while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rapid boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches al dente. Once it’s ready, reserve half a cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest in a colander.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and sauté the finely minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring it gently to avoid curdling. Allow the cream to come to a gentle simmer while whisking occasionally.
Step 6: Incorporate the Cheeses
Once the cream is simmering, gradually add in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with some Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 2–3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rotini to the Alfredo sauce, gently tossing to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, mixing until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Plate generous servings of the creamy pasta mixture and top each plate with the flavorful garlic butter chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a bit more grated Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy the comfort of this delicious, cheesy meal.
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled steak for a different protein option.
- Vegetables: Add spinach or broccoli to the pasta for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with red pepper flakes for added heat or fresh herbs like basil for a fragrant twist.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for best results.
- If you’d like to prepare ahead, the components can be cooked separately and combined just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- A glass of white wine complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce beautifully.
Tips
- Reserve pasta water, as it helps adjust sauce consistency without sacrificing flavor.
- For a creamy texture, constantly whisk your sauce to prevent it from splitting.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
- Protein: 42g
- Sodium: 880mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for holding sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based cream and cheese for a vegan option.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While pasta is best fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce is an ideal dish for anyone craving comfort food without the hassle. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or served during a family gathering, it’s a sure way to impress your loved ones. We encourage you to give this delightful dish a try, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken cubes to the pan and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the garlic infuse into the butter for about one minute.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rapid boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to avoid curdling.
- Once simmering, gradually add the grated Parmesan and mozzarella, stirring continuously until melted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooked rotini to the Alfredo sauce, gently tossing to coat. If too thick, add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.
- Plate the creamy pasta and top with garlic butter chicken, garnishing with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
For best results, do not overcook the pasta; it should remain al dente.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 650 kcal
- Sodium: 880 mg
- Protein: 42 g