This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan dish is a delightful blend of flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. You’ll love how tender chicken pieces are enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce and tossed with rigatoni pasta. It’s not only quick to prepare but also offers a comforting and rich taste that will satisfy the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce combined with Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables or swapping proteins as you prefer.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan for a beautiful meal that impresses guests.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spoon
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the rigatoni pasta evenly.
- Skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredients, which is key to perfecting flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream into your garlic-infused butter sauce. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth. If it becomes too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Toss in the rigatoni pasta until fully coated. Let it simmer together for another 1-2 minutes so all flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat once everything is well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan if desired, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for an added kick. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing complement the richness of the pasta.
- Mediterranean Salad – A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese brings a refreshing contrast to the dish.
- Arugula Salad – Lightly dressed arugula adds a peppery flavor that balances the creamy sauce.
Add Bread for Dipping
- Garlic Bread – Toasted bread infused with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Focaccia – This soft, herbed bread can be served warm alongside the pasta for a delightful texture.
Serve with Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while pairing well with the creaminess of the dish.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick-cooked spinach tossed in olive oil offers a healthy side that complements the rich flavors.
Include Wine Pairings
- Chardonnay – A buttery Chardonnay enhances the richness of the dish without overpowering it.
- Pinot Grigio – This light white wine provides a crisp finish that cuts through the creaminess.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Perfecting your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to make it even better.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken – Aim for golden brown chicken; overcooking can make it dry. A juicy texture is key!
- Adjust Sauce Consistency – If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Experiment with Cheese – While Parmesan is traditional, mixing in Pecorino Romano can add an extra depth of flavor.
- Let It Rest After Cooking – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Complementing your main dish with side dishes can create an unforgettable meal experience. Here are some tasty options.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort that pairs well with chicken.
- Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears roasted until slightly charred add elegance to your plate.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and drizzle balsamic reduction for a burst of flavor.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a fun touch to your meal while balancing savory flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs present an appetizing starter or side.
- Zucchini Noodles – Light zucchini noodles sautéed quickly offer a low-carb alternative alongside your pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not seasoning the chicken – Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to blandness. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta – Cooking rigatoni too long will result in a mushy texture. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best results.
- Using pre-grated cheese – While convenient, pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect meltability. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
- Skipping the reserved pasta water – This water adds starch and helps bind the sauce to the pasta. Always reserve some before draining your rigatoni.
- Rushing the garlic – Cooking garlic too quickly can cause it to burn, leading to a bitter taste. Sauté it gently until fragrant for optimal flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- This dish will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout; use a microwave-safe container.
- Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a buttery garlic sauce mixed with rigatoni and topped with Parmesan cheese.
How do I make this dish more spicy?
To add heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños while cooking the chicken for extra spice.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni works wonderfully, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli if desired.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
For a lighter version, use less butter or replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for creaminess without as many calories.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only rich and comforting but also highly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or even swapping out proteins. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is the ultimate comfort dish that combines tender chicken with creamy garlic butter sauce and hearty rigatoni pasta. This recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, as it comes together in just 30 minutes. The rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan create an irresistible meal that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with your favorite vegetables or proteins, ensuring a satisfying dinner every time. Garnish with fresh parsley for an impressive presentation that will wow your guests!
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- salt
- black pepper
- red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Add chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and let simmer until slightly thickened (3-4 minutes). Mix in Parmesan until smooth; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked rigatoni, and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Simmer for another minute before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
