If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a comforting blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a rich, velvety sauce made with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Every bite is packed with flavor and utterly satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight winner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this dish, each bringing essential flavor, texture, or color. From protein-packed chicken breast to sharp, nutty Parmesan cheese, every element plays a key role in creating layers of irresistible taste.

Rigatoni pasta (10.5 oz/300 g): Tube-shaped pasta that holds onto the luscious sauce beautifully.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a fruity richness and helps cook the chicken evenly.
Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Gives the sauce that silky, buttery smoothness.
Chicken breast (1 lb/450 g), cut into 1-inch pieces: Provides tender, juicy bites that soak up all the flavors.
Medium shallot, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic cloves (4, minced): Brings bold aroma and that classic garlic punch that dreams are made of.
Italian seasoning (½ tablespoon): A fragrant herb blend that ties all the flavors together.
Dry white wine (⅓ cup/75 ml): Adds brightness and a delicate tang while the alcohol cooks off.
Heavy cream (1 cup/200 ml): Creates the rich, creamy foundation of the sauce.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup/50 g), grated: Offers a salty, nutty boost that makes the sauce truly irresistible.
Fresh parsley (a handful, chopped): Adds a fresh, vibrant color and herbaceous finish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance every bite.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by boiling the rigatoni in generously salted water until al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Once cooked, drain and set aside, ready to soak up that creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Toss in your chicken pieces and cook until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through—about six to seven minutes. Then, remove the chicken and set it aside for now. This step locks in moisture and flavor.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the diced shallot and sauté until it turns translucent, about two to three minutes. Then add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until the kitchen fills with that inviting, garlicky aroma.

Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the dry white wine and allow it to simmer for two to three minutes. This step gently reduces the wine, intensifying its flavor and lifting those tasty browned bits stuck to the pan for extra depth.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Turn the heat down and stir in the heavy cream alongside the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth, rich, and silky—the perfect coating for the pasta and chicken.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Then toss in the rigatoni and stir everything together, making sure every piece of pasta and chicken is luxuriously coated with that creamy garlic butter Parmesan sauce.

Step 7: Season and Finish

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish to add a pop of color and a hint of fresh herbaceousness that brightens every bite.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley is a must for this dish—it not only adds vibrant green color but also a fresh, slightly peppery note that complements the richness wonderfully. For an extra touch, you can grate some additional Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

Light and crisp side dishes work best here to balance the creaminess. Think a fresh arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal veggies like asparagus or green beans, which add texture and a clean finish to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in warmed, shallow bowls to showcase the saucy texture and inviting colors. For a fun twist, try individual mini casserole dishes straight from the stove to the table for a rustic, family-style feel that gives everyone their own personal comforting portion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, but because of the creamy sauce, it’s best enjoyed within a few days to maintain that fresh, luscious texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month. Keep in mind the texture of the pasta might soften slightly after freezing, so it’s perfect for a quick meal but not quite the same as freshly made.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid high heat, which can cause the dairy to separate. Stir frequently to warm evenly and preserve the luscious sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta if I don’t have rigatoni?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s tube shape is great for catching the sauce, penne, ziti, or even fusilli would work just as well. Just cook the pasta until al dente and toss with the sauce as usual.

Is it possible to make this dish without wine?

Yes, you can skip the white wine if you prefer. Replace it with a bit of chicken broth and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. It won’t have the exact same depth, but it still turns out delicious.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

For sure! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs bring a bit more fat and flavor, which can make the dish even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time so they cook through properly.

How spicy is this recipe?

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is mild and creamy, without any heat. If you want a kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth or wine, and it will still be rich and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe, it’s bound to become a favorite dinner in your rotation. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and feels incredibly indulgent without being fussy. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, this dish brings that perfect cozy comfort that we all crave.