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Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later use.
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Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the 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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Prepare the creamy sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Combine the pasta and chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the cooked rotini pasta. Toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and dried herbs (basil and parsley) to taste.
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Serve: Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken and rotini hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve with: This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
Variants:
- Mushroom Version: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet after cooking the chicken to make this dish even more hearty and flavorful.
- Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for a light, veggie-packed version.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: For a zesty twist, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the sauce and a little lemon zest before serving.
FAQ:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and add the cooked pasta when ready to serve.
3. Can I use grated Parmesan from the store instead of fresh? While fresh, grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture, pre-grated Parmesan can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to use a high-quality brand for the best results.
4. How can I make this dish lighter? To lighten this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter milk option. You could also use a reduced-fat butter or skip some of the cheese, though the flavor will change slightly.
