Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy comfort food, look no further than Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. This dish is everything you want on a weeknight: tender golden chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a lusciously creamy Parmesan sauce with the deep flavor of sautéed garlic. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and it’s shockingly easy to bring together, even if you’re pressed for time. Make room at your table, because this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple, essential ingredients to create a sensational meal. Each one adds a unique layer of flavor or texture, which is exactly why Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is so irresistible – without complicating your shopping list.

• Rigatoni pasta: Its hearty tubes are perfect for catching every bit of that rich Parmesan sauce.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly and soak up all the garlicky, buttery goodness.
• Olive oil: Adds depth and helps your chicken get beautifully golden and tender.
• Unsalted butter: Creates a luxurious sauce base and amplifies the savory garlic flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced, it’s the aromatic heart of this dish—don’t skimp!
• Heavy cream: The secret to a velvety, rich sauce that perfectly clings to your pasta.
• Chicken broth: Infuses extra savoriness and lets the sauce stay perfectly pourable.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish—fresh is best here!
• Italian seasoning: A simple blend that ties all the classic Italian-American flavors together.
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste for a balanced, crave-worthy sauce.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds brightness and a pop of color when serving.

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

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your rigatoni until it’s just al dente—about a minute less than the package instructs—so the pasta holds up when tossed in the sauce. Don’t forget to snag a half-cup of that golden pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for creating the perfect sauce texture later.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While your pasta bubbles away, give your chicken bites a generous sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add olive oil to a hot skillet and cook the chicken until it turns gently golden and is cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re not just preparing protein; you’re building flavor right from the start. Once the pieces are done, set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

Lower your skillet’s heat to medium and toss in the unsalted butter. Once it begins to foam, add the minced garlic and let it sizzle just until fragrant—about a minute. Your kitchen will instantly smell incredible, and this step sets the stage for the signature flavor of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce.

Step 4: Create the Parmesan Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Stir patiently as you add the freshly grated Parmesan, watching the sauce thicken and turn luxuriously creamy. If you’re using pre-shredded cheese, it might not melt as smoothly, so freshly grated is worth the extra minute!

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken and rigatoni to the skillet, tossing everything together so each bite is coated in that dreamy Parmesan sauce. If your sauce seems a bit thick, drizzle in reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches your ideal consistency. Let the mixture heat through for another 2 to 3 minutes. Now you’re ready to garnish and serve!

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

Garnishes

Lift the flavors and presentation with a scatter of freshly chopped parsley right before serving—just a little bright green makes the plate pop and adds freshness to the rich sauce. For extra decadence, add a final snowfall of grated Parmesan over each portion right at the table.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is rich and satisfying, so simple sides work best. A crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus will balance out the creamy sauce. And of course, no one will complain about a loaf of warm, crusty bread to mop up every last bit!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving portions in shallow bowls for a rustic, trattoria-style feel. For a show-stopping touch at dinner parties, twirl the rigatoni and chicken into nests using tongs, then ladle extra sauce on top. Sprinkle with parsley or basil and a few grinds of black pepper for a restaurant-worthy finish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce to cool to room temperature, then store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle overnight, making lunch the next day a serious treat.

Freezing

While cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, this dish freezes surprisingly well. Pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to one month. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk, cream, or even reserved chicken broth to help return it to its silky state. Stir gently until heated through and enjoy all over again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s tubes are perfect for capturing the sauce, penne, ziti, or even rotini all work great in this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. Just keep an eye on cooking time so your pasta stays perfectly al dente.

Is it necessary to use freshly grated Parmesan?

For the creamiest, silkiest sauce, freshly grated Parmesan really does make a difference. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts and may result in a grainier sauce. If possible, grab a wedge and grate it yourself!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free rigatoni or pasta. Double-check that your Parmesan and chicken broth are labeled gluten-free, and you’re set for a hearty gluten-free version of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce.

Can I add vegetables or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers are excellent additions. Add them at the same time as the chicken or just before tossing with the pasta for extra flavor and color.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Another trick is to stir a tablespoon of cream cheese into the sauce for added creaminess.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about how quickly and easily Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce comes together—yet every mouthful tastes like a special occasion. Don’t wait for a celebration to whip this up. Let it become your new go-to for weeknights, gatherings, or whenever you need a little extra comfort in a bowl. Your family and friends will thank you!

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