Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The dish combines tender chicken, a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni pasta for a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, making it a standout choice that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or protein variations.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy delicious leftovers that can be reheated easily, saving you time on future meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools needed to make this creamy delight. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken and creating your creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of the rigatoni so it’s perfectly al dente.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in stirring without scratching your skillet while mixing ingredients.
Ingredients
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in a luscious Parmesan sauce is the perfect comfort food! Tender chicken, rich Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni come together for a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. A sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes it off, making this dinner one to remember.
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
For the Sauce
- 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 and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces 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: Make the Garlic Butter 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 to combine; bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet.
Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add cooked chicken back into the skillet followed by cooked rigatoni pasta.
Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring each piece is coated in creamy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce makes for a delightful meal that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to elevate your dining experience or keep it casual, here are some serving suggestions.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the dish.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves can provide an aromatic touch that complements the creamy sauce.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a satisfying crunch and flavor.
- Focaccia: This soft, Italian bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from the plate.
Add a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish with crisp romaine and creamy dressing.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate.
Serve Family-Style
- Large Serving Platter: Transfer the chicken and rigatoni to a large platter for a communal dining experience.
- Individual Bowls: For a cozy feel, serve portions in individual bowls for each guest.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To ensure your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni always turns out delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Cooking Method: Sear the chicken until golden brown for enhanced flavor before adding it to the sauce.
- Timing: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooking pasta will make it mushy. Aim for al dente.
- Cheese Choice: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for a richer taste and creamier texture.
- Adjusting Flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes based on your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Complement this rich dish with some tasty side options that enhance your meal. Here are some great choices:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent side that pairs well with chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch and brightens up the plate.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, season, and roast until tender for a flavorful addition.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze offer a crunchy texture that complements the softness of pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, cured meats, and pickled vegetables provides variety and stimulates appetites.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold chicken: Always use chicken that is at room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
- Not seasoning adequately: Don’t skip on the salt and pepper. Seasoning enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook rigatoni just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Skipping the garlic sauté: Sautéing garlic before adding it to the sauce brings out its flavor. Don’t rush this step.
- Adding cheese too quickly: Mix in Parmesan slowly for a smooth consistency. This avoids clumps in your sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some popular questions about Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead! Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
What type of chicken should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe due to their tenderness.
How can I customize this recipe?
You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This creamy pasta dish stores well and makes excellent leftovers.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful meal that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or even switch up the protein to suit your taste!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce—your new favorite comfort food! This delightful dish features tender, bite-sized chicken simmered in a luscious garlic butter sauce, combined with hearty rigatoni and finished with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable with your favorite vegetables. In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a meal that satisfies everyone’s cravings and warms the heart.
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
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes) and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add cooked chicken and rigatoni to the skillet; toss until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 710
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
