There’s something truly magical about the combination of creamy, garlicky goodness with tender chicken and rigatoni. If you’ve been craving a dish that’s indulgent yet comforting, trust me, this one is for you. Picture this: the rich, savory aroma of garlic butter swirling in your kitchen, the satisfying bite of rigatoni perfectly coated in parmesan sauce, and the juicy chicken that brings it all together. Are you drooling yet? I sure am! Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, family-friendly recipe that’s about to become your new favorite.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is nothing short of spectacular. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors.
Rigatoni: These large, ridged pasta tubes are perfect for holding onto the rich, creamy sauce. Each bite is packed with flavor!
Garlic Butter: It’s all in the garlic butter. This sauce brings all the flavors together, creating a luscious base that coats everything beautifully.
Heavy Cream: Creamy, velvety, and rich. It’s what makes the sauce dreamy and luxurious.
Parmesan Cheese: You can’t go wrong with parmesan. It adds that perfect salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
Chicken Broth: For depth and flavor in the sauce. It adds just the right amount of savory goodness.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Pan: Start by preheating your large skillet over medium heat. This ensures an even cook for your chicken.
Cook the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Prepare the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese, and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat it in that creamy, garlicky sauce. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with more parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, then serve warm. This dish is sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 550
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish on a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
A1: Absolutely! Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a plant-based version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken the day before. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat and toss with the pasta.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the dish after it’s fully cooked. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is easy, just make sure your skillet is large enough, or you can cook in batches.
Q7: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A7: Of course! Feel free to swap the rigatoni for another pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. The sauce will still be amazing.
Q8: Is this dish kid-friendly?
A8: Yes! The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this a hit with kids. Just adjust the seasoning to your liking if you want it milder.
Q9: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A9: Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute, coconut cream or almond milk, and dairy-free cheese to make it a dairy-free version.
Q10: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A10: Absolutely! You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
There you have it! Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is an easy, cozy, and absolutely delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making it just for yourself, this recipe will not disappoint. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Sauté, Simmer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a rich and delicious pasta dish loaded with tender chicken, savory garlic, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, followed by the cooked rigatoni pasta. Toss to combine and coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For added flavor, try sprinkling red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
- You can substitute rigatoni with penne or fettuccine if preferred.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 625
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 145mg