Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together creamy flavors and tender chicken, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at a gathering, this meal checks all the boxes. The rich garlic butter sauce envelops the rigatoni and chicken, creating a satisfying experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
• Step 5: Combine Everything
• Step 6: Serve and Garnish
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add Garlic Bread
• Incorporate Veggies
• Serve with Wine
• How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different pasta types?
• How do I make this dish gluten-free?
• What can I serve alongside this dish?
• Can I add vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile: Perfect for family dinners or romantic evenings, this recipe suits various occasions and tastes.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and delicious flavors make it a hit with children and adults alike.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day without losing any flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta perfectly al dente.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and making the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:

• 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. 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 minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add 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 cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Add rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm, enjoying every creamy bite!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can be elevated with the right serving suggestions. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the richness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the garlic butter sauce.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices spread with garlic butter make for a perfect dipping companion.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate your garlic bread by adding melted cheese for an extra gooey treat.

Incorporate Veggies

• Roasted Broccoli: Simple roasted broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the dish’s richness.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutrient-dense side that pairs beautifully.

Serve with Wine

• White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances flavors without overpowering the meal.
• Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir can also complement the savory elements of the dish.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

To achieve the best version of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until golden brown but remain juicy; overcooked chicken can lead to dryness.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your sauce before serving; feel free to tweak salt or spice levels according to preference.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water can be added if your sauce becomes too thick, ensuring a creamy consistency.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings freshness; don’t skip this step!
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, storing them separately until ready to combine for serving.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Complementing this rich pasta dish is easy when you have tasty side dishes in mind. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting addition alongside the pasta.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh crunch that pairs well with rich meals.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a slightly nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly balances out the meal’s richness.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of sweetness that complements savory flavors wonderfully.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb option, zoodles are a great alternative that still holds onto flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish is a success.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can shock the sauce. Always let these ingredients come to room temperature before adding them to the skillet.
• Not reserving pasta water: Failing to reserve some pasta water might result in a sauce that’s too thick. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency.
• Rushing the garlic: Burning garlic can create a bitter taste. Sauté it just until fragrant, usually around 30 seconds, to keep its flavor pleasant.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into individual servings for easy thawing.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.

Can I use different pasta types?

Yes! While rigatoni is great, you can substitute with penne or fusilli for a different texture.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta options available in stores.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs well with this comforting meal, enhancing your dining experience.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers work wonderfully in this recipe for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today!