This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce A decadent pasta dish featuring tender chicken, rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, all infused with garlic and butter for a truly comforting meal. This recipe is a perfect balance of creamy, savory flavors and hearty textures, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this dish combines simplicity with indulgence. The creamy garlic butter sauce is packed with flavor, and the rigatoni pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully. The tender chicken bites make this dish satisfying and protein-rich. Whether it’s the quick preparation or the comforting taste, it’s a recipe that always brings joy to the table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, followed by the cooked rigatoni pasta. Toss to combine and coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Variations
Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a different protein.
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Replace rigatoni with penne, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta shape.
Substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the sauce to separate.
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FAQs
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
I like to use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but I would recommend adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce since milk is less rich.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not ideal because the cream sauce can separate when reheated. I suggest enjoying it fresh or refrigerating it for short-term storage.
What other herbs can I use besides parsley?
Basil, chives, or even a sprinkle of thyme would complement the flavors beautifully.
Can I make this vegetarian?
You can skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini can make it hearty and flavorful.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a dish that combines comfort and elegance in every bite. With its rich, garlicky sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings and warms the soul. Whether you’re preparing dinner for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
📖 Recipe:
PrintCreamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a decadent and comforting dish. Featuring tender chicken, rigatoni pasta, and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked rigatoni. Toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey for variety.
Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 580 kcal