Description
Tender seared chicken with rich garlic cream sauce, melty cheese, and rotini pasta—this comforting skillet dinner is packed with flavor and ready in 40 minutes.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Reduce heat; add butter to the same skillet. Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened.
Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
Add pasta to skillet, tossing to coat. Stir in reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
Slice or place whole chicken breasts over the pasta. Spoon extra sauce on top.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a veggie boost.
Use chicken thighs for added juiciness.
Swap mozzarella for gouda or provolone for a flavor variation.
Use half-and-half to lighten up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, One-Pot Meals
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
