If you are looking for a dish that is both comforting and impressive, then this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender pieces of chicken with a decadent, garlicky butter sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni enveloped in rich Parmesan cream, this recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and luxurious textures all in one pan. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to share with loved ones on the weekend. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dish right is surprisingly easy because it relies on a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients. Each element is essential—bringing flavor, creaminess, and that perfect balance of textures that make this dish stand out.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all the luscious flavors from the sauce.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create that silky garlic-infused base for the sauce.
- Minced garlic: The star aromatic that brings a warm, inviting flavor.
- Chicken broth: Builds a savory depth in the sauce without overwhelming the creaminess.
- Heavy cream: Delivers that indulgent, velvety consistency every creamy pasta craves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce to elevate every bite.
- Rigatoni pasta: Its ridges and tube shape hold onto the luscious sauce brilliantly.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing all flavors.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of bright color and fresh, herbal notes as a garnish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Begin by cooking 12 ounces of rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta will have that ideal chewy texture that complements the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning right on top for maximum flavor. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway to ensure even cooking. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial as it unlocks the deep, savory notes that make this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe impossible to resist.
Step 4: Build the Sauce with Chicken Broth
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. This not only deglazes the pan, bringing up all those tasty browned bits from cooking the chicken, but also reduces slightly to concentrate the flavor base before adding cream and cheese.
Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan Cheese
Now pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and blends into a smooth, creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 more minutes so the sauce thickens to that perfect consistency that clings beautifully to the rigatoni.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Rigatoni
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained rigatoni pasta. Gently toss everything together to coat each piece of pasta and chicken with that irresistible creamy garlic butter sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving to add a fresh, herbal brightness and a lovely splash of color that makes the dish as beautiful as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish here, adding a delicious pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness. You can also try a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a dash of cracked black pepper for a bit more depth.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to round things out, consider a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Both options introduce fresh, light contrasts to the creamy pasta, keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party vibe, serve this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe in shallow bowls with extra parsley sprinkled on top. You might also offer lemon wedges on the side for guests who enjoy a little citrus brightness to cut through the creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to store the pasta and chicken separately from the sauce to prevent texture changes. Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Microwaving is fine too but reheating slowly on the stove preserves the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! Penne, penne rigate, or even fettuccine can work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well against the creamy sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use a reduced amount of butter to cut some calories while still maintaining creaminess and flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time so you get the perfect texture.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
Dried parsley works in a pinch but fresh parsley really brightens the dish. You could also experiment with fresh basil or chives for a different herbal note.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe is soul-satisfying food at its best, blending bold flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of elegance that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, this dish delivers comfort and style all at once. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces sautéed in garlic butter, combined with perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta, and smothered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Butter and Garlic
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. This will allow the broth to reduce slightly, intensifying its flavor.
- Add Cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened. Let it simmer gently for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained rigatoni pasta and toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are well coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoothest sauce texture.
- To make this gluten-free, substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta of your choice.
- If you prefer, add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
