Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to a new level. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, special occasions, or even when you want to indulge after a long day. The combination of tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and hearty rigatoni makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.

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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
• Seasoning
• Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
• Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
• Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 4: Create Creamy Mixture
• Step 5: Combine Ingredients
• Step 6: Serve with Garnish
• How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add Some Bread
• Enhance with Extra Garnishes
• 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
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• How can I make this dish healthier?
• What should I serve with this dish?
• How do I store leftovers of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic butter and Parmesan sauce create a deep flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and familiar ingredients, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe by adding vegetables or using different types of pasta.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in preparing your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while making the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for balanced flavors.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Necessary to cook rigatoni perfectly al dente.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 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

Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

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 the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Create Creamy Mixture

Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together until both pasta and chicken are well coated in that luscious creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve with Garnish

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce!

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

Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is all about enhancing the dish’s rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp Romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons adds crunch and flavor contrast.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: This soft, herb-infused bread pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and pasta.

Enhance with Extra Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top elevates the dish’s cheesy goodness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.

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

To achieve the ultimate Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• seasoning: Season your chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking to enhance its flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Cook pasta al dente: Ensure your rigatoni is cooked just right; it should have a slight bite to hold up against the creamy sauce.
• Simmer gently: When adding cream, simmer gently to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

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

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your meal while balancing the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings out its natural flavors and offers a crunchy texture.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can serve as an additional comfort food option that complements the main dish.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices add a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses provides an appetizer-style side that enhances Italian flavors.
6. Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil on skewers make for a vibrant side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Failing to chop garlic or measure ingredients can lead to chaos. Always prepare your ingredients before starting the cooking process.

• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Use salt and pepper generously, and taste as you cook to adjust seasoning.

• Overcooking chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Cook just until golden and no longer pink inside, then set aside.

• Rushing the sauce: A smooth sauce takes time. Let the garlic sauté before adding broth and cream; this enhances flavor.

• Ignoring pasta timing: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta for the best texture.

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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 dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag; it lasts for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat while stirring. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni works great, you can substitute it with penne or fettuccine for a different texture.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for fewer calories without losing creaminess.

What should I serve with this dish?

Serve it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with vegetables or different proteins based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that will surely impress!