This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that embodies comfort food at its finest! With tender chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce paired with hearty rigatoni, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any night when you crave something indulgent. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The garlic butter and Parmesan sauce create a luscious coating that enhances every bite.
- Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from prep to table, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Dish: This recipe suits various palates, making it great for family gatherings or casual dinners.
- Comforting Ingredients: Classic ingredients like chicken and pasta come together to provide warmth and satisfaction.
- Crowd-Pleasing Meal: It’s a guaranteed hit that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These essentials will help streamline your preparation process and ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your rigatoni cooks evenly without sticking together.
- Measuring cups: Helps you get the right amount of ingredients for consistency in flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain it well and set aside. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly al dente.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic.
Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine.
Bring it to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Create Creamy Mixture
Add in the heavy cream along with grated Parmesan cheese.
Stir until you achieve a smooth texture.
Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with rigatoni pasta.
Toss everything together gently.
Ensure all pieces are well-coated in that creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your deliciously creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Elegant Plating
- Use a wide, shallow bowl to serve the rigatoni. This allows the creamy sauce to pool beautifully around the pasta, enhancing its presentation.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of each serving. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Serve with crusty garlic bread or breadsticks. They are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and add an extra layer of comfort to your meal.
Accompanying Salad
- A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
Wine Selection
- Consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity balances the creaminess of the sauce beautifully.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To truly master this dish, focus on a few key techniques that enhance its flavors and textures.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the taste significantly compared to dried or processed alternatives.
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Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook rigatoni until it is al dente. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce.
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Monitor Heat Levels: Keep an eye on your skillet’s heat when adding cream. Too high can cause it to boil rapidly, which may lead to curdling.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Don’t be afraid to tweak salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your personal preference for flavor balance.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
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Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce while adding a comforting element to your dinner.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds crunch and freshness that perfectly complements the rich pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted with olive oil provide a healthy side that pairs well with this creamy dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
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Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
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Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables can make for an impressive appetizer before serving your main course.
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Mixed Green Salad: Simple mixed greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette can cleanse your palate between bites of rich chicken and pasta.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a delightful summer side that complements hearty dishes like this one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for golden pieces cooked through but still juicy, about 6-8 minutes.
- Not Salting the Pasta Water: Failing to salt your pasta water means bland rigatoni. Use a generous amount of salt; it should taste like the sea!
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried garlic instead of fresh can dull the flavor. Always opt for fresh garlic for that robust taste.
- Rushing the Sauce: If you rush the sauce, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to simmer and reduce as instructed for a creamy texture.
- Ignoring the Garnish: Skipping parsley can make your dish look dull. A sprinkle adds color and freshness, elevating presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3 days for best flavor.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Best if consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce.
What makes Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce so special?
This dish is special because it combines tender chicken with rich flavors of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce, creating a comforting meal.
Can I customize the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat rigatoni or reducing the amount of heavy cream by substituting with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pairs well with this dish, balancing its richness.
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience perfect for any night. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile enough for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste buds!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. This quick and delicious recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, perfectly paired with hearty rigatoni. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this dish delivers a satisfying meal that everyone will adore. In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a bowl of creamy goodness that warms the heart and delights the taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet along with rigatoni; toss to coat evenly.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
