Rich, Creamy, and Irresistibly Delicious!
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni recipe combines tender, bite-sized chicken pieces with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce that clings perfectly to every rigatoni noodle. It’s an indulgent, restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!
-Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni pasta
Salt, for pasta water
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Season and Sear the Chicken:
Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for a smooth, creamy texture.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
Add the drained rigatoni and toss until the pasta is fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic butter, Parmesan, and heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce that’s hard to resist.
3. Customizable: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutrient-packed twist.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone will love the comforting flavors of this creamy pasta dish.
-Tips for Success
1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the rigatoni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed in the sauce.
2. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Scraping the skillet after cooking the chicken ensures you capture all the delicious browned bits for extra flavor.
4. Adjust Consistency: Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce as needed—it’s starchy and blends beautifully.
-Delicious Variations
Add Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrition.
Make It Spicy: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for a hint of heat.
Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, sliced sausage, or even tofu instead of chicken for a new twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the rigatoni with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
-Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.
-FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best to freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, cooking fresh pasta to serve.
-Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 520 kcal
Servings: 4
-The Inspiration Behind This Recipe
This recipe is a fusion of classic Italian flavors with the comforting richness of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s designed to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a family meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
-Conclusion
Creamy, garlicky, and packed with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rigatoni, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. It’s an easy, one-pan dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Try it tonight and experience the magic of homemade creamy pasta!
