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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Twisted Cheddar Pasta

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Twisted Cheddar Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Twisted Cheddar Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings family and friends together. This delightful recipe features tender chicken pieces seasoned to perfection, paired with twisted pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this meal is quick to prepare and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With its blend of flavors and textures, it’s a go-to favorite that transforms any dinner into a memorable occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or fusilli and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sear the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden-brown with crispy edges and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and whole milk. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
  4. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce. Stir continuously until it becomes thick, creamy, and glossy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust thickness.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly so that every twist is smothered in cheesy goodness.
  6. Serve the cheesy twisted pasta with seared garlic butter chicken arranged on top or alongside it. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

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