Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken, flavorful rotini pasta, and rich, cheesy goodness that everyone will love. Whether you’re in a hurry or planning a special meal, this recipe shines with its simplicity and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Convenience: Save time on cleanup with this easy one-pot recipe, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Cajun seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that elevates the chicken and pasta.
• Cheesy Goodness: With melted mozzarella and creamy Velveeta, every bite is packed with cheesy delight that’s sure to satisfy.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even casual gatherings—this dish fits any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella, gather the essential tools and equipment needed for the recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking everything in one pot while allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient cutting of chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Guarantee accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

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

For the Pasta

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup Velveeta (cubed)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 them 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.
5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare 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 sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan.
2. Stir everything together so that each piece is coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Melt the Mozzarella

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

Step 6: Serve Hot

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot for an extra touch of freshness! Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is a comforting and satisfying dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the rotini directly from the skillet for a casual family meal. This not only makes serving easier but also keeps the dish warm.

Individual Bowls

• Dish out the pasta into individual bowls, adding extra cheese on top for a personal touch. This presentation makes it easy for guests to enjoy their portion.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your garlic butter chicken rotini with crusty bread. This allows everyone to soak up the creamy sauce, adding a delightful texture to the meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh salad, like a simple green salad or Caesar salad. The crunch of vegetables complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

To elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the flavor of your dish, making it taste even better.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the Cajun seasoning to match your spice preference; add more for heat or use less for a milder flavor.
• Control Creaminess: Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your desired richness. Less cream will give you a lighter dish.
• Stir Constantly: When melting Velveeta, keep stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce without any lumps.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist on flavors.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the parsley garnish; it adds freshness and enhances the visual appeal of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

Adding side dishes can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options that pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements any pasta dish. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli
   This vibrant vegetable adds color and nutrition while providing a nice crunch against the creamy pasta.
3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rotini.
4. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus is an elegant side that brings earthy flavors to balance out your meal.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make this light salad an excellent palate cleanser alongside hearty pasta.
6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness, making it an exciting pairing with cheesy dishes like this rotini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and making Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Seasoning adds depth to your dish. Ensure you coat the chicken well with Cajun seasoning and other spices before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked rotini can become mushy. Follow the cooking time closely, stirring occasionally until the pasta is just tender but still has a bit of bite.
• Using low-quality cheese: The cheese makes this dish creamy and delicious. Opt for high-quality mozzarella and Velveeta to achieve the best melting results.
• Skipping the garlic butter step: This step is vital for infusing flavor into the chicken. Stir the minced garlic and butter in with the cooked chicken for that irresistible garlic taste.
• Not allowing cheese to melt fully: Patience is key! Letting the mozzarella sit on top for a few minutes ensures it melts perfectly, creating that gooey texture everyone loves.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to keep it creamy while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella?

This dish combines tender chicken and rotini pasta cooked together in a creamy garlic butter sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s simple yet flavorful!

How can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini?

You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For spice lovers, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning!

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini holds sauce well, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if preferred.

How do I make it healthier?

To lighten this dish, consider using whole grain pasta, reducing the amount of butter used, or substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt for creaminess without extra calories.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely. Just follow proper storage guidelines mentioned above!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough to suit any palate. You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Try making it today; your family will surely love this creamy delight!

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Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella

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Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini with Melted Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, flavorful rotini pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that everyone will crave. With just 30 minutes of preparation, this dish shines in both simplicity and taste. The mouthwatering blend of garlic butter, Cajun seasoning, and gooey melted mozzarella creates an irresistible flavor profile that elevates your meal. Whether you’re in a hurry or want to impress guests at a potluck, this versatile recipe is sure to be a hit!

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Velveeta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Cajun seasoning and spices

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken seasoned with Cajun seasoning and cook until golden brown.
2. Stir in butter and minced garlic until fragrant, then remove chicken from the skillet.
3. Pour chicken broth into the same skillet, add rotini pasta, cover, and cook until tender.
4. Lower heat and mix in heavy cream, Velveeta, and Parmesan until creamy.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese, cover until melted, then serve garnished with parsley.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-Pot Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning. Substitute different types of pasta for variety.