A Comforting and Flavorful Pasta Dish the Whole Family Will Love
Ready to wow your taste buds and bring a restaurant-quality meal to your dinner table without all the fuss? This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the perfect answer. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this rich and satisfying pasta dish delivers creamy perfection in every bite.
Let’s dive into how you can make this hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce—all made in under 30 minutes!
Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a pasta dish drenched in a rich, creamy sauce—especially when it features garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and juicy, golden-brown chicken. This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the kind of meal that satisfies every craving: savory, creamy, cheesy, and just a bit indulgent.
It’s a recipe you can rely on time and time again—perfect for a quick family dinner, an intimate date night at home, or even a cozy weekend treat. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, even novice home cooks can whip up this dish with ease.
Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Colander (for draining pasta)
Serves: 4 people
Total Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Ingredients
To create this creamy, savory dish, you’ll need the following:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the rigatoni according to the package directions. You’ll want it al dente so that it holds up well when tossed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water—about 1/2 cup—in case you want to thin out the sauce later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden-brown on the outside and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of your sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with your spoon to release any flavorful brown bits. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the flavor.
Next, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce is fully combined and begins to thicken. Simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld into a rich, creamy texture.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked rigatoni pasta. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
If the sauce is too thick for your liking, now’s the time to add a splash of that reserved pasta water to thin it to your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while everything is warm, creamy, and delicious.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce. For the smoothest texture and best flavor, grate your own Parmesan from a block.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so keep a close eye while sautéing to avoid a bitter taste.
- Cut Chicken Evenly: Make sure all chicken pieces are about the same size for even cooking.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of your pasta water. The starch in it helps bind the sauce and pasta together beautifully.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the salt or pepper as needed.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. A crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, also complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life.
- Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerate only.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Rigatoni is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, but penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti work well. Choose a pasta with ridges or a tube shape for best results.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. Full-fat coconut milk could also work for a dairy-free alternative, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.
3. What can I add to make it more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory boost.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written. To make it gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and pasta in advance and store them separately. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce, then toss in the chicken and pasta for a quick meal. Keep in mind that fresh is always best for optimal texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something special. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—everything you could want in a comforting pasta dinner.
With minimal prep time, simple ingredients, and a whole lot of flavor, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation. Don’t be surprised if your family asks for seconds—or thirds!
So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and treat yourself to this deliciously creamy pasta dish tonight. You deserve it!
