If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together without fuss, this arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, nestled atop a bed of creamy, cheesy rotini pasta. The garlicky, Parmesan-rich sauce hugs every twist of pasta, making each bite pure indulgence. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll become your go-to for those busy days when you want something both easy and irresistible.

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner
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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner are wonderfully simple yet essential for building layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays its part—from the perfectly cooked chicken adding protein and heartiness to the creamy cheese sauce delivering that melt-in-your-mouth richness.

340g rotini pasta: The spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce with every bite.
2 chicken breasts: Provides tender, juicy protein that complements the cheesy pasta flawlessly.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the garlic, adding depth to the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle but unforgettable aroma and flavor to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious base for the creamy Parmesan sauce.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty notes that elevate the flavor complexity.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey cheesiness and beautiful meltiness.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right hint of spice to cut through the richness.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
2 tablespoons chopped parsley: For a fresh and vibrant garnish that brightens the dish.

How to Make arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts well with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse them with flavor. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest—this ensures it stays juicy. When slightly cooled, slice it to prepare for plating.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

While the chicken rests, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente—meaning tender but still with a slight bite. Drain the pasta well and set it aside, ready to be tossed in that heavenly sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Prepare the Sauce

Using the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. This step releases the garlicky aroma that will make the dish unforgettable. Next, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently, creating the creamy base for your sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Seasonings

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses gradually until the sauce turns silky and rich. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste. You’ll notice the sauce thickening beautifully, ready to coat the pasta perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now, toss your cooked rotini pasta right into the creamy cheese sauce. Mix gently but thoroughly so each piece of pasta is generously coated, promising cheesy delight in every forkful.

Step 6: Serve with Sliced Chicken and Garnish

Top the cheesy pasta with those tender slices of garlic Parmesan chicken. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and an extra handful of Parmesan cheese on top for that final touch that makes dinner look and taste extraordinary.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Meal!

Serve this arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner hot and fresh. Get ready to savor a combination of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky flavors perfectly balanced with savory chicken. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!

How to Serve arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a beautiful pop of green but also a fresh, slightly peppery note that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce. You can also add a dash of extra Parmesan for those cheese lovers craving a little more.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy meal with something light and crisp like a simple mixed greens salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also make wonderful companions, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve this dish family-style in a large, warm serving bowl topped with an extra handful of parsley and Parmesan. Or plate it individually, layering the pasta first, then the sliced chicken gracefully on top for a polished restaurant feel at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store leftover arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of pasta may soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors remain deliciously intact.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Heat until just hot to keep the chicken tender and avoid drying out the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini works wonderfully to catch the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine would be delicious alternatives depending on your preference or pantry stock.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the rotini for a gluten-free pasta variety. Also, ensure any seasoning blends you use are gluten-free to keep this arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner safe for gluten-sensitive diners.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

You can try using half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. For a lighter yet still creamy texture, blending in some Greek yogurt off heat after cooking can be a good option.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). They should be golden on the outside and no longer pink inside. Resting the chicken before slicing helps the juices redistribute for maximum juiciness.

Can I prepare parts of this meal ahead of time?

Definitely! You can cook and slice the chicken earlier in the day and store it in the fridge, or cook the pasta ahead and toss it with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking. Just combine everything and make the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity together in one dish, the arlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner is your new best friend. It’s creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and satisfyingly tender—everything a great dinner should be. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Easy Pasta Dinner

★★★★★

5 from 17 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Cheesy Rotini with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is an easy and delicious pasta dinner perfect for weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and pan-seared, then served over rotini pasta drenched in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with melted mozzarella cheese. Garnished with fresh parsley, this comforting dish combines rich flavors and simple ingredients for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside to rest before slicing.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a little olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Allow the cream to simmer gently for a few minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce and toss well to coat every piece of pasta thoroughly with the creamy sauce.
Assemble the Dish: Transfer the cheesy rotini to plates or a serving dish. Top with the sliced garlic Parmesan chicken and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the dish hot for a comforting, cheesy pasta meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
Resting the chicken after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender.
Adjust seasoning in the sauce to taste, especially salt and pepper.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but note the sauce will be less rich.
Garnish with extra parsley or grated cheese for a pretty presentation and added flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Pan-frying, boiling
Cuisine: Italian-American