If comfort food had a glamorous twin, this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken would be it. Each bite is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky richness, with a hint of spice from perfectly seared chicken bites. The twisted pasta captures the sauce beautifully, while the golden-browned garlic butter chicken brings warmth and protein-packed satisfaction.

This dish is a weeknight dream and a weekend indulgence. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want to impress but not stress. From the thick Alfredo sauce clinging to the spirals of pasta to the crispy edges of juicy chicken, this recipe is all about big flavors with minimal fuss. One skillet for the chicken, one pot for the pasta, and you’re on your way to a dinner worth savoring.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta?

This dish thrives with rotini or fusilli pasta—both are spiral-shaped varieties that hold onto the Alfredo sauce exceptionally well. You can substitute with penne or farfalle, but the twisted shape helps create that creamy forkful every time. Go with high-quality durum wheat pasta for the best texture.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Rotini Pasta
Its spiral shape traps every bit of creamy Alfredo sauce, making each bite luxurious.

Chicken Breast or Thighs
Choose boneless, skinless chicken for a quick sear and juicy, tender finish.

Garlic & Butter
The key duo for searing the chicken and infusing bold, aromatic flavor.

Heavy Cream
Creates that luscious Alfredo base.

Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated is best—it melts smoothly into the sauce for a velvety texture.

Mozzarella Cheese
Adds extra creaminess and a bit of that cheesy pull.

Parsley
Fresh or dried, it brightens the dish and adds visual appeal.

Salt, Black Pepper & Paprika
Seasonings that bring out the warmth in the chicken and balance the richness.

How To Make the Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Garlic Butter Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Add the diced chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Alfredo Base

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the mozzarella and stir until you get that irresistibly creamy texture.

Step 4: Toss Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Add the cooked rotini pasta into the skillet and toss it well to coat in the Alfredo sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the sauce clings to the pasta.

Step 5: Combine and Garnish

Top the saucy pasta with the golden garlic butter chicken. Sprinkle parsley over everything for a burst of freshness. Serve hot!

Serving and Storing Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Garlic Butter Chicken

Serve this pasta fresh and hot, ideally right after assembling for the creamiest texture. It pairs well with garlic bread or a crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette. If you’re entertaining, serve in a warm ceramic dish to keep the cheese from stiffening too quickly.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk before microwaving or gently warming on the stove—this helps bring the sauce back to its silky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and heated through before adding it to the pasta.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese for a lighter option.

How can I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or marinate the chicken with cayenne pepper.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli.

What cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago work beautifully and offer a sharper taste.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing isn’t recommended for cream-based sauces as they can separate, but it’s doable. Reheat slowly while stirring in extra cream.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this cheesy Alfredo pasta with golden garlic butter chicken, here are more creamy, satisfying dishes you should try next:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for an all-in-one skillet dinner.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta when you want richness without the cleanup.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for hearty, cheese-loaded comfort.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli to keep things cozy and veggie-packed.
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup if you’re craving something creamy and spoonable.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or try it with shrimp? Maybe tossed in spinach? I love hearing the twists you add to make these recipes your own.

Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta with Golden Garlic Butter Chicken in Creamy Sauce is the ultimate creamy weeknight indulgence. Twisted rotini pasta holds onto every drop of rich Alfredo sauce, while garlic butter-seared chicken brings golden, flavorful perfection. It’s hearty, comforting, and surprisingly easy to pull together in under an hour.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Add mozzarella and stir until fully incorporated.

4. Toss the cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat thoroughly and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

5. Add chicken back into the skillet or top each serving with it. Garnish with parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!