Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a deliciously creamy dish perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals. This one-pot recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful garlic butter, and gooey melted mozzarella, making it an irresistible choice. It’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Cajun seasoning adds a depth of flavor that elevates this pasta meal.
• Creamy Texture: With heavy cream and melted cheeses, every bite is rich and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the savory flavors.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily swap in different proteins or veggies to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven: This is crucial for cooking everything in one pot, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while simplifying cleanup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring and preventing scratches on your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Pasta

• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Velveeta (cubed)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add the butter and minced garlic. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter, then remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. In the same pan, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
2. Stir in the rotini pasta. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Stir in heavy cream, Velveeta cubes, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Mix until Velveeta is fully melted and sauce becomes creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked chicken back into the pan.
2. Stir everything together so that it’s well coated in cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Melt the Mozzarella

1. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.
2. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella! It’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is all about complementing the rich, cheesy flavors and ensuring a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the rotini.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Include Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: A slice of fluffy focaccia can soak up any leftover sauce, enhancing every bite.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: For those who love more protein, top your rotini with grilled chicken for an extra hearty meal.
• Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp can bring a touch of elegance and additional flavor to your dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

To achieve the ultimate creamy and flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the depth of flavor compared to powdered garlic.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures that pasta retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. You may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Incorporate Veggies: Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can boost nutrition and flavor.
• Opt for Quality Cheese: Using high-quality mozzarella will yield better melting results and flavor.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the parsley! It adds freshness and visual appeal to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Complement your Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender for a savory side.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls create a refreshing contrast when served cold.
4. Cauliflower Mash: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that complements the dish without adding heaviness.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a light option, zucchini noodles provide a fresh crunch alongside the rotini.
6. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic echo the flavors in your main dish while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Using too much oil – Adding excessive oil can make the dish greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden brown color and remove it from heat when fully cooked.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time – Not paying attention to the pasta cooking time can result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions and check for al dente texture.
• Not stirring enough – Failing to stir the pasta while it cooks can cause it to stick or cook unevenly. Stir occasionally for best results.
• Skipping garnishes – Neglecting to add fresh parsley or other garnishes can diminish presentation and flavor. Always finish with a sprinkle of herbs for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Separate into smaller portions for easier thawing.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella.

How do I customize Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella?

You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences as well!

Can I use gluten-free rotini pasta?

Yes! Substitute regular rotini with gluten-free options available at most grocery stores without changing any other ingredients.

What if I don’t have Velveeta cheese?

You can replace Velveeta with a combination of cream cheese and additional shredded mozzarella to achieve a similar creamy texture.

How can I add more flavor to Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or even a splash of lemon juice right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini is perfect for meal prep. Store in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it appealing both as a family dinner and for entertaining guests. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!