Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is an indulgent and comforting dish that combines perfectly cooked chicken with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. The sauce is made with garlic, butter, chicken broth, and cream, creating a luxurious coating for the tender chicken and hearty rigatoni pasta. The dish is seasoned with Italian herbs to bring out aromatic flavors, while Parmesan cheese adds a deep, savory richness. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion when you crave something creamy and satisfying. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy

The combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a silky, indulgent sauce that’s perfect for coating both the chicken and pasta.

2. Full of Flavor

Garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan infuse this dish with bold, savory flavors, making every bite a delicious experience.

3. Quick and Easy

With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

4. Comforting and Hearty

The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and rigatoni pasta offers a comforting and filling meal that will satisfy any appetite.

5. Customizable

You can easily add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor and add more texture to the dish.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Rigatoni pasta
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Parsley (chopped)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Different Pasta: If you don’t have rigatoni, substitute with penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti for a different shape.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream and substitute dairy-free cheese.
• Add Bacon: Crispy bacon bits would pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and add a savory crunch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts, about 3-4 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked rigatoni pasta and toss to coat the chicken and pasta in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer to thicken.
• Add Extra Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
• Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will absorb some of the sauce while simmering, make sure it’s cooked al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni dish with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or chicken broth if needed.

Freezing

While this dish can be frozen, the creamy sauce may change in texture after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, store the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

2. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. You may need to cook it a bit longer if using frozen chicken.

3. Can I make this dish without cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese.

6. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

For the best results, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.

7. How spicy is this dish?

This dish is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.

8. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe and will be extra juicy.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cream and cheese alternative to make the dish dairy-free.

10. How can I make the sauce more flavorful?

Consider adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken pair perfectly with hearty rigatoni pasta, making every bite comforting and indulgent. With its simple ingredients and quick prep, this recipe is easy to make yet feels luxurious enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or guests, this creamy chicken pasta is sure to be a hit.

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