Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is comfort food at its finest! Perfect for family dinners or a cozy date night, this dish combines tender chicken, rich Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni to create an indulgent meal. The creamy texture and savory garlic flavor make each bite unforgettable, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For the Pasta
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
• Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
• Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base
• Step 4: Make It Creamy
• Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
• Step 6: Serve Your Dish
• How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• Pair with Fresh Bread
• Add a Salad
• Wine Pairing
• How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce gluten-free?
• Can I use another type of pasta?
• How spicy is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
• What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Dish: This creamy pasta can be served for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.
• Comforting Meal: The combination of chicken and pasta in a luscious sauce makes it the ultimate comfort food.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 35 minutes, you can enjoy this delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These essentials will help you prepare your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious pan allows even cooking of chicken and makes it easy to combine everything together.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot ensures your rigatoni cooks evenly while providing ample space for boiling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For 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

Begin by boiling water in a pot. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base

Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Next, add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to your skillet. Stir continuously until you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken back into your skillet along with the drained rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together well so that both the chicken and pasta are coated evenly with that delicious creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy this delightful creamy garlic butter chicken with rigatoni!

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

Serving up creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is a delightful experience. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also impresses guests with its rich flavors and elegant presentation.

Family Style

• Serve the dish right from the skillet for a casual family meal. This makes it easy for everyone to help themselves.

Individual Plates

• For a more formal setting, plate the creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni individually. Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an appealing touch.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Offer warm, crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious Parmesan sauce.

Add a Salad

• A light salad complements this dish well. Consider a simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Wine Pairing

• A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this creamy dish. The acidity in these wines cuts through the richness of the sauce.

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

Perfecting this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality chicken, fresh herbs, and real Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook chicken just until it’s golden brown and cooked through to keep it tender and juicy.
• Control Your Heat: Simmer sauces over low heat to prevent curdling when adding cream and cheese.
• Adjust Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

To create a complete meal, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce. They offer balance and additional flavors that complement the main course beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Classic and buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides crunch that contrasts nicely with creaminess.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy tones that enhance the overall meal experience.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze brighten up the plate.
6. Grilled Asparagus: A touch of char from grilled asparagus adds depth while remaining light.

These sides will round out your dining experience, making it both satisfying and memorable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this dish, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken enough can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken pieces well before cooking to enhance their taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Ignoring garlic timing: Adding garlic too early can cause it to burn and become bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant, then add other ingredients.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Neglecting to garnish with fresh parsley may miss adding a fresh flavor. Always finish your dish with herbs for a burst of color and taste.
• Not letting sauce simmer: Failing to let the sauce simmer can prevent it from thickening properly. Allow it time to reduce for a creamy consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this delicious recipe.

How do I make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free rigatoni pasta and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?

This recipe is not spicy at all. If you want some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes while cooking.

What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is an incredible comfort food option that combines rich flavors with satisfying textures. This versatile recipe allows for various customization options, such as adding veggies or using different proteins. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!