Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy pasta in a savory garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. The combination of rich flavors and comforting textures ensures that everyone at the table will be satisfied.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a 30-minute total prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Rich Flavor: The garlic butter sauce brings a depth of flavor that elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet meal.
- Creamy Comfort: The heavy cream and Parmesan create a luscious texture that coats each piece of rigatoni beautifully.
- Versatile Dish: This meal can easily be adapted with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy pasta and tender chicken, making it a hit for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gathering the right tools will make everything smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the rigatoni evenly while ensuring ample space for stirring.
- Skillet: A must-have for searing the chicken and creating the delicious garlic butter sauce in one pan.
- Strainer: Useful for draining the cooked pasta while reserving some pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.
Ingredients
For this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you will need:
- 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
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 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, and 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 simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Add the rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes so everything melds together.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm to enjoy this comforting dish!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve it.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This encourages sharing and makes for a cozy dinner atmosphere.
Individual Plates
- Plate the chicken and rigatoni separately for a more formal presentation. Drizzle extra sauce on top and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a beautiful touch.
Lunch Prep
- Portion the leftovers into meal prep containers. It reheats well, making it a convenient option for easy lunches throughout the week.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Serve alongside crispy garlic bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s a perfect complement to this rich dish.
Salad Accompaniment
- Add a side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese significantly enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook rigatoni until al dente; it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Don’t hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preference.
- Reserve Pasta Water – This starchy water helps thicken your sauce while keeping it creamy.
- Let it Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together.
- Garnish Generously – Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the overall taste of the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Pairing sides with your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great suggestions:
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine tossed in Caesar dressing pairs well with the creamy pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color, nutrition, and a slight crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting addition to your plate.
- Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses creates an Italian-inspired appetizer before your main course.
- Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing starter.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice cooked with herbs provides a light contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter brings summer vibes and sweetness to balance your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure a perfect dish every time.
- Ignoring the Pasta Cooking Time – Overcooking rigatoni can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions for al dente.
- Using Pre-minced Garlic – Pre-minced garlic lacks flavor compared to fresh. Use fresh cloves for a more robust garlic taste.
- Skipping the Chicken Seasoning – Not seasoning chicken can result in bland meat. Ensure you season it well before cooking for maximum flavor.
- Rushing the Sauce Preparation – A good sauce takes time to develop flavor. Take time to let the garlic sauté and the cream thicken properly.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water – This water is starchy and helps bind your sauce. Always reserve some before draining your pasta.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if desired.
Is Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan a good meal prep option?
Absolutely! It’s quick to prepare, and leftovers store well in the fridge or freezer.
How do I make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce the amount of butter used.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
A simple salad or steamed vegetables pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or swapping out proteins. Try this recipe today for a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a mouthwatering dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, satisfying both kids and adults alike. With its luxurious flavors and inviting aromas, it will quickly become a favorite in your home. The combination of hearty rigatoni and savory Parmesan creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this deliciously indulgent dish!
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 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
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni in boiling salted water until al dente, reserving some pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken until golden brown; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, allowing it to thicken slightly before adding Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Combine the chicken and rigatoni with the sauce, mixing well to coat everything evenly.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
