This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is an irresistible dish that brings comfort to any table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe combines tender chicken, rich Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni for a satisfying meal. The blend of garlic and butter adds depth to the creamy sauce, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress family and friends.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates an indulgent sauce that elevates every bite.
Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
Versatile Meal: Suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything comes together in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
Pot for boiling pasta: Necessary for perfectly cooked rigatoni that holds the sauce well.

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.

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)

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 and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden and 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 the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

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

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring that both pasta and chicken are well-coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve It Up

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 is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this comforting meal.

Pair with Salad

Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine and creamy dressing, complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
Mixed Green Salad – Light and refreshing, a mixed green salad with a vinaigrette adds balance to the creamy chicken.

Add Bread

Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious Parmesan sauce. It’s a must-have side!
Breadsticks – Soft, warm breadsticks can add an Italian flair to your meal while providing a great texture contrast.

Choose Wine

White Wine – A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, enhances the creamy flavors beautifully.
Red Wine – For those who prefer red, a light-bodied wine like Chianti pairs well without overwhelming the dish.

Finish with Garnish

Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle extra fresh herbs like basil or thyme on top for added flavor and freshness.
Lemon Zest – A little lemon zest can brighten up the dish and elevate its taste profile.

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

To achieve the best version of creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
Don’t Overcook Chicken – Ensure chicken pieces are cooked just until golden brown for maximum juiciness.
Adjust Sauce Consistency – If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Taste as You Go – Always taste the sauce before serving; adjust seasoning according to your preference.
Rest Pasta Briefly – Letting rigatoni rest after cooking helps prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
Garnish Generously – A good garnish not only beautifies the dish but also adds layers of flavor that enhance your meal’s appeal.

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

Complementing your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce with delicious side dishes can elevate the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

Steamed Broccoli – This vibrant green veggie adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a delightful crunch that pairs nicely with creamy dishes.
Grilled Zucchini – Grilling zucchini gives it a smoky flavor that contrasts well with the savory pasta.
Caprese Salad – The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a refreshing counterpoint to this hearty meal.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn can add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements in your main dish.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that enhances your comfort food experience.
Stuffed Mushrooms – These bite-sized appetizers filled with cheese and herbs are great for starting off your meal on an indulgent note.
Focaccia Bread – This fluffy Italian bread has an herby flavor that makes it perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, it’s easy to go wrong. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Overcooking the chicken. Chicken should be cooked until golden and just done. Overcooking can make it dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness.
Skipping the seasoning. Seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the chicken before cooking. This enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Not simmering the sauce long enough. Simmering allows flavors to meld. If you rush this step, your sauce may lack depth. Let it simmer a few minutes longer if needed.
Using low-quality Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan adds richness. Pre-grated cheese often lacks flavor. Invest in good cheese for better results.
Cooking pasta too long. Pasta should be al dente, or firm to the bite. Cooking it until soft can lead to mushy rigatoni in your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
Use a freezer-safe container or bag; it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 3-5 minutes).
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to keep it creamy.

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?

You can easily substitute other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if you prefer.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using grilled chicken instead of sautéed chicken and reduced-fat cream for a lighter version.

What can I serve with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook everything ahead of time; just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. This comforting meal is perfect for weeknights or special gatherings—give it a try!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Tia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the creamy, comforting flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. This delightful dish combines tender chicken pieces with a rich garlic butter sauce and hearty rigatoni pasta, creating an unforgettable meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sauté until golden (6-8 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet.
Add remaining butter to the skillet with minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; mix until smooth and creamy. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Return cooked chicken and rigatoni to the skillet; toss until well coated in sauce.
Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian-American