Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The rich flavors of garlic and butter elevate the dish, while melted mozzarella adds an irresistible gooey finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal and less cleanup afterward!
• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of heavy cream, Velveeta, and mozzarella creates a rich and satisfying sauce.
• Flavorful Seasonings: Cajun seasoning adds a kick, while garlic provides depth of flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting pasta dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These tools help ensure your cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep skillet or Dutch oven: The wide surface area allows for even cooking of the chicken and pasta.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon is essential for stirring ingredients as they blend together into a creamy sauce.

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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
• 1/2 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 to the skillet. 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 to the pan. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter. Remove chicken 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: Make It Creamy

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

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan.
2. Stir well to coat everything in the cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

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

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.

This tasty Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella will surely become a family favorite! Enjoy each creamy bite packed with flavor!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a creamy, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it right can enhance the overall dining experience and satisfy all your guests.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve in generous portions alongside a fresh garden salad for a nutritious meal.
• Pair with garlic bread for an extra garlic kick and to soak up the creamy sauce.

Elegant Dinner Party

• Present in individual ramekins topped with extra melted mozzarella for a sophisticated touch.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added color and flavor.

Quick Lunch Meal Prep

• Divide into airtight containers for easy reheating during busy weekdays.
• Include some steamed vegetables on the side to boost nutrition.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

To achieve the ultimate creamy and cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini, consider these essential tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavors compared to dried versions.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures your pasta retains a firm texture and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! You can always add more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning to suit your palate.
• Let cheese melt slowly: Lowering the heat while adding cheese allows it to melt evenly without clumping.
• Add veggies for nutrition: Consider incorporating spinach or broccoli for added vitamins and minerals.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – A classic side that complements the garlic flavors in the rotini. Toast until golden brown.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the creaminess.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots bring a sweet earthiness when roasted.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is a fun side that pairs well with creamy dishes; serve it buttered or grilled.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a refreshing sweetness that counteracts the savory flavors of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Not properly seasoning the chicken – Failing to season the chicken adequately can result in bland meat. Always ensure you coat the chicken evenly with seasoning before cooking.

• Skipping the garlic butter step – Skipping the addition of garlic and butter after cooking the chicken can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Make sure to stir them in for that rich, garlicky taste.

• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the rotini for too long can leave it mushy. Follow the recommended time and check for doneness frequently.

• Using low-quality cheese – Low-quality cheese may not melt well, impacting creaminess. Opt for good-quality cheeses like Velveeta and mozzarella for best results.

• Not allowing cheese to melt properly – Rushing this step means missing out on gooey, melted cheese. Cover the pan and let it sit to achieve that perfect texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

• Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Ensure it is tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella?

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a delicious one-pot pasta dish featuring tender chicken cooked in garlic butter, creamy sauces, and melted mozzarella cheese.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients or swap out cheeses based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based cream alternatives and dairy-free cheese substitutes to create a dairy-free version of Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella.

How long does this dish take to cook?

Prepare this meal in approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick dinners.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a delightful meal that combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try for a comforting dinner option!