There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a creamy chicken rotini simmering on the stove, filling your kitchen with inviting scents that make your stomach grumble in anticipation. Imagine twirling that perfectly cooked rotini around your fork, each bite melding together flavors of tender chicken, rich sauce, and a blend of gooey cheeses. This creamy chicken rotini recipe isn’t just food; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. For more inspiration, check out this Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. They all gathered around the table, their eyes wide with curiosity and mouths watering as I dished out generous servings. The laughter and chatter that followed filled the room with warmth, proving that good food creates unforgettable moments. One-Pan Dinner Idea Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken rotini recipe is not just easy to whip up; it’s packed with flavor and comfort
- You can customize it with whatever veggies you have in your fridge
- The creamy sauce coats each piece of pasta beautifully, creating a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress
- Enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or dress it up for gatherings with friends and family
My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was when I served it at my last game night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Rotini Pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many diners are at your table.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
- Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar works wonders for flavor and gooeyness.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; choose firm cloves for maximum flavor impact. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
- Spinach or Broccoli: Optional but highly recommended for color and nutrition; chop them finely for even cooking.
- Seasonings (Salt and Pepper): Essential for bringing out the flavors; don’t skimp on these!
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken; it adds richness without overpowering other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add in about 12 ounces of rotini pasta and cook until al dente, roughly 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Quick Pasta Salad Side Cook until golden brown on both sides and no longer pink inside, which takes about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic and Veggies: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and let it rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic cloves along with chopped spinach or broccoli if you’re using them. Sauté everything for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and vibrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet along with shredded cheese (about 1-2 cups). Stir gently until melted and combined into a dreamy sauce that coats everything nicely.
Toss Everything Together: Chop up your rested chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding back into the skillet along with drained rotini pasta. Stir until everything is well coated in that velvety sauce—this should take about 1 minute.
Serve It Up!: Plate your creamy chicken rotini while it’s hot! Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired; dive into this comforting dish immediately while it’s still warm.
Enjoy every cheesy bite of this creamy chicken rotini recipe—it’s pure happiness on a plate!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken rotini recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for busy weeknights
- The cheesy sauce envelops the pasta beautifully, making every bite a comforting experience
- It’s an easy dish that brings joy to the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the rotini while preparing the creamy sauce. This order ensures everything finishes simultaneously and maintains vibrant flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Stuffed Peppers with Chicken Experimenting with different seasonings can elevate this dish to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked rotini, follow package instructions but taste test two minutes before suggested time
- Use fresh herbs for added flair, and don’t skip on cheese; it’s what makes this dish divine!
Cooking this creamy chicken rotini recipe always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone eagerly awaited dinner, sharing laughter and stories while devouring every last bite. Coconut Chicken for Dinner.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free rotini works beautifully for this creamy dish without sacrificing flavor.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a delicious kick in your creamy chicken rotini.
What kind of cheese works best?
A mix of mozzarella and parmesan gives a rich, gooey texture that elevates your meal.
Creamy Chicken Rotini
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Rotini is a delightful pasta dish that combines tender chicken, al dente rotini, and a luscious creamy sauce, all enveloped in gooey melted cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings family and friends together. Easy to prepare, you can customize it with your favorite veggies, making it versatile for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1–2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chopped spinach or broccoli (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook rotini until al dente (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
- 2. Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove from pan.
- 3. Add garlic and veggies: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and optional veggies for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 4. Create the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and cheese, stirring until melted.
- 5. Combine: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, add to the sauce with drained pasta. Toss to coat well.
- 6. Serve hot: Garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 597
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 652mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Swap chicken for shrimp or add bell peppers for a twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.
