One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rotini


One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rotini is a cozy, satisfying dinner made with tender golden chicken, spiral pasta, garlic, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Everything cooks in one pot, making this recipe easy enough for busy weeknights.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 12 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry. Toss with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through to 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  3. Sauté the garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same pot, add the minced garlic, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Cook the rotini: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up the flavorful browned bits. Add the rotini and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover loosely, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Make it creamy: Lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, and red pepper flakes. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
  6. Finish the dish: Return the chicken and any juices to the pot. Stir everything together and simmer for 2–3 minutes until hot. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream.
  7. Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Helpful Tips

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan because it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Stir the pasta often while it cooks so it does not stick to the bottom of the pot.
  • The sauce thickens as it cools; keep a little broth ready to loosen it if necessary.
  • Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to restore the creamy texture.

This recipe was created to match the dish shown in the photo. Adjust seasonings and sauce thickness to your preference.

 

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