Step-by-step instructions

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry. Season them generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the seasoned chicken. Sear for about 5-6 minutes per side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced garlic for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to deglaze the pan and bring this mixture to a light simmer.
4. Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens to your liking.
5. Throw the cooked rotini into the skillet with the sauce and gently toss for 1-2 minutes to coat the pasta evenly.
6. On your serving plates, lay down the creamy rotini, top it with the sliced chicken, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Best ways to enjoy it

This creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini is best served steaming hot, ideally straight from the pan to the plate. For a beautiful presentation, consider adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top and a light drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a simple side salad to balance the richness or garlic bread for a carb-lover’s feast. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, like a crisp Pinot Grigio, to enhance the flavors of the creamy sauce.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard not to devour it all), store them in an airtight container in your fridge. Properly stored, this dish will last for about 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems too thick. Always ensure food is reheated thoroughly to a safe temperature.

Helpful cooking tips

1. Chicken Searing: Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before searing. This helps it cook evenly.
2. Pasta Perfection: Al dente pasta is key. It will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce, absorbing some flavors without getting mushy.
3. Cheese Choices: Don’t limit yourself to just Parmesan and mozzarella; feel free to experiment with other cheeses like fontina or gouda for different flavor profiles.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to keep things exciting:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Substitute Proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp or cooked sausage for a different protein experience.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this dish suitable for vegan diets.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The entire process takes around 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

How can I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger crowd?

This recipe is easily scalable. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities based on how many servings you need, keeping in mind that the sauce can be made in bulk and stored for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the creamy pasta dish. Make sure it’s cooled completely, then store in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer; just remember to reheat thoroughly after thawing.