If you are on the hunt for a comforting yet elegant meal that brings rich flavors right to your dinner table, the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken with al dente rigatoni, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter and Parmesan cream sauce. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is utterly simple to whip up any night of the week, making it a sure crowd-pleaser for friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward and essential the ingredients are. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the creamy texture, garlic aroma, and the perfect cheesy finish that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking and easy eating.
- 3 tablespoons butter: For that rich, silky base to both the chicken and the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent aroma and depth, essential for elevating the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Lightly simmers with garlic, enhancing flavor without overpowering the cream.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the velvety, luscious texture that clings perfectly to rigatoni.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: Its ridges are perfect for catching every bit of the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings herbal notes that complement the creamy sauce and chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors thoughtfully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and contrast.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A vibrant, fresh garnish that brightens the final dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling your rigatoni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it’s firm to the bite but cooked through. Once done, drain it and set it aside. Properly cooked pasta is key to absorbing all the creamy sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken to Golden Perfection
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and that flavorful Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken to a plate; don’t worry, the skillet will be the base for your silky sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Garlic Butter Base
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté gently for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step is where the recipe’s inviting aroma truly takes shape.
Step 4: Create the Foundation with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth to your skillet, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the chicken. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavor and preparing the base for that creamy sauce.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan for the Signature Sauce
Slowly add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the broth mixture. Stir continuously until everything is smooth, silky, and uniformly blended. Let this sauce gently simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, so it thickens just right to coat your pasta and chicken flawlessly.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the rigatoni. Toss everything together carefully to ensure each piece of pasta and chicken is luxuriously wrapped in that creamy, cheesy garlic butter sauce ready to wow anyone’s taste buds.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve Immediately
Finish off your masterpiece by sprinkling the chopped fresh parsley on top. Not only does this add a delightful pop of color, but it also introduces a fresh herbal note that balances the richness. Serve right away so you can enjoy this creamy delight at its absolute best.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is perfect for a fresh, clean contrast, but don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. A twist of lemon zest can also lift the richness beautifully if you want a bright surprise.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables creates a lovely balance. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is ideal to scoop up every last bit of that sumptuous Parmesan sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in a warm, shallow bowl so the sauce is front and center for every bite. Garnish creatively with parsley sprigs or edible flowers for a dinner party. Layered plating by adding sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes on top can add color and extra flavor dimensions that delight the eyes before the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will stay rich, though the pasta may absorb more sauce overnight, so stir well before serving again.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the cream sauce and pasta might shift slightly upon thawing. If you freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months. Thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving directly without stirring, as the sauce may separate. Slow and gentle warming maintains the luscious creaminess best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the sauce thanks to its ridges, penne, fusilli, or farfalle can also do a great job. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap butter for a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the taste and creaminess will change but still remain delicious.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can cook and store the chicken pieces separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours before combining them with the sauce and pasta. This can save time if you want to assemble the dish quickly on the day of serving.
What if I want a thicker sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, just let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cream and Parmesan, stirring frequently to avoid burning. You can also mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the sauce as it simmers for an extra thickened finish.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions and complement the creamy garlic butter chicken beautifully. Add them when you begin sautéing the garlic for best results.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is destined to become one of your favorites. It’s the perfect pairing of simple ingredients and rich flavors that feels indulgent yet comforting. Whether for a weeknight meal or an impressive dinner guests will love, this dish is sure to satisfy and bring smiles all around. Go ahead and give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a rich and comforting dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces are cooked to golden perfection, then coated in a luscious garlic butter Parmesan cream sauce and combined with perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. Finished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a deliciously creamy Italian-inspired dinner.
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
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Make the sauce base: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, mixing continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together well to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni immediately while warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best sauce texture and taste.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid curdling the cream sauce.
