Craving something hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying? This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken is exactly what you need. With a swirl of creamy Alfredo coating tender rotini and perfectly seared chicken bites, this dish turns simple comfort food into a next-level dinner delight.

The flavor combination of garlic butter and rich Alfredo sauce is irresistible. It strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and savory warmth. Whether you need a weeknight dinner idea or a weekend comfort dish, this one-plate wonder delivers every single time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To pull off this creamy pasta and juicy chicken combo, having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference.

Large Skillet or Saute Pan: This is essential for cooking the chicken evenly and allowing the butter and garlic to coat every piece.
Medium Pot: Use this for boiling your rotini pasta. Choose one with high sides to prevent overboiling.
Colander: To drain the pasta while keeping it firm and not soggy.
Tongs or Wooden Spoon: Great for tossing the chicken while it sears and ensuring even browning.
Whisk: Helps create a silky-smooth Alfredo sauce without clumps.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For cubing the chicken and prepping garlic or herbs.

Each of these tools plays a critical role in delivering the right texture and depth of flavor to both the pasta and the chicken. Don’t skip the whisk—it’s your secret weapon for that perfectly creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Rotini Pasta: Twisted shapes hold the creamy Alfredo sauce in every bite.
Chicken Breasts: Lean protein base, seared to golden perfection.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken, adds depth and a slight fruity undertone.
Butter: The backbone of garlic butter flavor, rich and indulgent.
Garlic Cloves: Key to creating that savory garlic butter coating.
Dried Italian Herbs: Introduces subtle herbaceous notes that balance the creaminess.
Heavy Cream: Foundation of the Alfredo sauce, luscious and thick.
Parmesan Cheese: The ultimate Alfredo enhancer—melty, salty, and sharp.
Salt, Pepper, Paprika: These basic spices elevate both the chicken and sauce.
Chopped Parsley: Optional garnish that adds color and freshness.

How To Make the Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

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

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Cube the chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Reduce heat, pour in the heavy cream, and whisk continuously. Stir in Parmesan and dried herbs. Let it thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat. Add the rotini pasta and fold gently until everything is well combined. Top with parsley and serve hot.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Pasta Delight

Serve it fresh off the stove for maximum creaminess and warmth. The sauce hugs the pasta perfectly right after mixing. Pair it with garlic bread or a light green salad to round out the meal.

For storing, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to restore its silky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic or a pinch of cayenne to the Alfredo sauce.

Can I substitute the chicken with shrimp?

Absolutely. Sear the shrimp quickly until pink, then follow the same process.

What pasta shapes work best if I don’t have rotini?

Fusilli, penne, or farfalle are all great alternatives that hold sauce well.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

Half-and-half works but won’t be as thick. Add a bit of cream cheese to help thicken it up.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep components separately and combine just before serving.

What sides go well with this pasta?

Steamed broccoli, roasted veggies, or garlic knots complement it beautifully.

Want More Creamy Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a beefy twist with tender noodles.

Or explore the creamy spice of Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli for something a little bolder.

For a weeknight shortcut, try the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, a baked pasta dish loaded with comfort.

You can also experiment with the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for an even heartier dinner idea.

Another indulgent option? The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe that layers bold flavor in a creamy format.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your pasta boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add mushrooms? Try a spicy twist? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

For more recipe inspiration, visit my Pinterest LadyPlate board.

Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken is the kind of comfort food that wraps you in warmth. Creamy rotini pasta meets golden-seared chicken bites, all drenched in a buttery garlic sauce that’s both hearty and indulgent. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests without the stress.

Instructions

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

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

4. Lower heat and pour in heavy cream. Whisk continuously to avoid clumping.

5. Stir in shredded Parmesan and Italian herbs. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.

6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in sauce.

7. Add pasta into the pan, gently folding everything together until evenly coated.

8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.