Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner

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This Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of dinner that tastes like a restaurant meal but comes together with easy, everyday ingredients. Rotini pasta is the perfect shape to soak up all that creamy, cheesy sauce while juicy garlic parmesan chicken adds a layer of hearty flavor that turns this dish into pure comfort food.

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Each forkful delivers a cozy, crave-worthy combination of sharp parmesan, melty mozzarella, rich cream, and golden pan-seared chicken with crispy edges. Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or whipping up a weeknight treat, this pasta brings everyone to the table fast. And best of all, it reheats like a dream for those lucky leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

There are nights when only cheesy pasta will do, and this one never disappoints. The rotini holds the creamy sauce beautifully, and the seasoned garlic parmesan chicken is full of bold flavor without being fussy. It’s easy to make with pantry staples but tastes indulgent enough for a special occasion.

The whole dish comes together in one skillet (if you boil the pasta ahead of time), making cleanup a breeze. And the leftovers? They’re somehow even better the next day. You’ll want to add this to your dinner rotation immediately.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here because they cook quickly and slice beautifully. But if you prefer darker meat, boneless thighs are just as tasty and deliver even juicier bites. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly. You can also use pre-cooked or leftover chicken if you’re in a hurry—just warm it up in the skillet with the garlic butter and toss it into the pasta.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dinner is packed with classic, comforting ingredients that balance creaminess, texture, and flavor. The rotini pasta is perfect for grabbing hold of that cheesy sauce, while the garlic parmesan chicken gives it serious flavor and protein. Everything here is easy to find, and you likely already have most of it in your pantry or fridge.

  • Rotini pasta
  • Chicken breasts
  • Garlic cloves
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Heavy cream
  • Butter
  • Olive oil
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley

How To Make the Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

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

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If they’re thick, slice or pound them to an even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt another tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to scrape up any browned bits. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan. Mix until smooth and melty. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken. Add the drained rotini and sliced chicken to the skillet and gently toss to coat everything in the sauce. Warm through, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but it also plays well with simple sides. It serves about 4 people generously, making it ideal for family dinners or casual hosting. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and maybe some extra parmesan on top for good measure.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely and transfer it into an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life and stir gently over medium heat or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread

A classic side that never fails. The crispy crust and buttery center are perfect for soaking up that extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunch of croutons bring a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a pop of green and a touch of char that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Steamed Green Beans

A lighter, no-fuss veggie option that complements without overpowering.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.

Grilled Zucchini

A smoky veggie pairing that works especially well in warmer months.

Crusty Baguette

Tear it, dip it, and enjoy it with the extra cheesy sauce.

Lemon Arugula Salad

Peppery greens with a citrus vinaigrette bring brightness and balance to the plate.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’re in for a treat with these other savory favorites from Luna Meals:

Each one is an easy dinner win packed with flavor!

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or keep it simple? Did your kids ask for seconds like mine always do?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other make dinnertime easier.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and pastas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for weeknight dinners!

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Conclusion

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfect pasta for a feel-good meal that’s easy to make and always satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time. Keep it in your dinner rotation and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings with each bite.

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Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner


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  • Author: Luna Bailey
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This cheesy rotini with garlic parmesan chicken is the ultimate easy pasta dinner recipe. Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor from juicy seared chicken and a blend of parmesan and mozzarella, this one-skillet meal is perfect for weeknights and family gatherings. Keywords: cheesy rotini, garlic parmesan chicken, easy pasta dinner, creamy chicken pasta.


Ingredients

16 oz rotini pasta

2 large chicken breasts

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pound to even thickness if needed.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and let rest.

4. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

5. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the skillet. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Stir in mozzarella and parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

7. Slice cooked chicken and return to skillet along with the rotini. Toss gently to coat in sauce.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness when reheated.

For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.

Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 630
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 460mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

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