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Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
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Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano. Cook for 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the cream and broth: Stir in the chicken broth (or white wine) and bring it to a simmer for about 2 minutes. Next, add the heavy cream and continue simmering for another 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.
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Add the Parmesan cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a smooth, creamy texture. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil (if using) to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to reach the desired consistency.
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Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the sauce. If necessary, adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper.
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Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an extra burst of color and flavor. Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini hot, and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve immediately: This creamy dish is best enjoyed fresh when the sauce is warm and the flavors are well-combined.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Variants:
- Add Vegetables: You can incorporate veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to give the dish a little heat.
- Chicken and Shrimp: For a seafood twist, swap out some of the chicken for shrimp to make this a chicken and shrimp Parmesan dish.
FAQ:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While the pasta and sauce can be prepared ahead of time, it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving to maintain the best texture. You can store the cooked chicken and sauce in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.
3. Can I use a dairy-free option for the cream and cheese? Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream and plant-based cheese to make this dish dairy-free. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
