Creamy Chicken and Sausage Rotini is a hearty, comforting pasta dish that combines the savory flavors of tender chicken, spicy sausage, and creamy sauce, all tossed with rotini pasta. It’s a one-pan meal that’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
This easy-to-make dish is full of flavor and texture, with a creamy sauce that brings it all together. The rotini pasta helps trap the sauce, making each bite a delicious mouthful of comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Savory & Hearty – Chicken, sausage, and creamy sauce
- Perfectly Textured – Rotini pasta holds the sauce
- One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes
- Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults
- Customizable – Spice it up or add veggies
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), crumbled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Cook rotini in salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken and Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
Add sausage and cook until browned and crumbled.
Remove both from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in parmesan cheese and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine the Pasta & Meat
Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet.
Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan, if desired.
Serve hot.
How to Serve
Plating Tips:
Serve in wide bowls with a generous portion of creamy sauce and a sprinkle of cheese.
Perfect Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Leftover Uses:
- Reheat for lunch
- Serve over rice or with a side of greens
- Make into a creamy pasta bake
Beverage Pairing:
- White wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
- Sparkling water with lemon
Additional Tips
- Use a mix of mild and spicy sausage for balanced flavor
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and flavor
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with mushrooms or tofu
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños
- Creamy Spinach: Stir in spinach at the end for extra greens
- Pasta Swap: Use penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine for a different texture
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerate: Up to 3 days
Freeze: Up to 2 months (before adding cheese)
Reheat: Stovetop with a splash of cream or chicken broth
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Mixing spoon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground chicken instead of breast?
Yes, ground chicken works great for this recipe.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese and store it in the fridge for up to a day.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but the sauce might change in texture. Add a splash of cream when reheating.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken and Sausage Rotini is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a comforting meal. With tender chicken, savory sausage, and creamy pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
