Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this recipe stands out for its creamy garlic butter sauce that envelops tender chicken and hearty rigatoni. Quick to whip up in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight meal that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Creamy Flavor: The garlic butter sauce combined with Parmesan creates a rich and savory dish that is hard to resist.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or keep it vegetarian by adding your favorite veggies.
- Family-Friendly: This pasta dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal that requires minimal effort.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and making the garlic butter sauce in one pan, enhancing flavor.
- Colander: Useful for draining the pasta quickly without losing any noodles.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare 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, and 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 the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the 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 the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Add the rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
For a Family Dinner
- Serve in large bowls for a comforting, shareable experience.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
For an Elegant Occasion
- Plate the dish individually for each guest, garnishing with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
- Add a side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.
As Meal Prep
- Divide into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Include some steamed vegetables on the side for added nutrition.
With Wine Pairing
- Serve with a glass of Chardonnay, which complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- A light Pinot Grigio also works well, enhancing the dish’s flavors without overpowering them.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook rigatoni until al dente to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preference.
- Reserve Pasta Water – Keeping some pasta water handy can help thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with Proteins – Try substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety while maintaining similar flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Pairing side dishes with your main course can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.
- Garlic Bread – A classic accompaniment that’s perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a fresh contrast to the rich pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil offer sweetness and texture alongside your dish.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing flavor pairing that complements Italian cuisine.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick-cooked spinach with garlic adds a healthy green element that’s easy to prepare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Using overcooked pasta – Cooking the rigatoni too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
- Not seasoning chicken properly – Under-seasoned chicken can result in bland flavors. Make sure to season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Skipping the pasta water – The reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency. Always save some before draining the pasta.
- Burning the garlic – Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily. Sauté it just until fragrant to avoid a bitter taste.
- Not allowing the sauce to thicken – Rushing through the simmering process will prevent the sauce from reaching its creamy potential. Allow it to simmer until thickened.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing it.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between sessions, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
- Stovetop – Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan that may help you get started.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta works well! Penne or fusilli are great alternatives for this recipe.
How can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this comforting dish.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only rich and creamy but also extremely versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike—give it a try!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, a comforting dish that elevates any dinner table. This quick and easy recipe combines succulent chicken pieces with hearty rigatoni, all enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With its savory notes and delightful textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream; let simmer until slightly thickened (3-4 minutes). Mix in Parmesan cheese until smooth; adjust thickness with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Combine cooked chicken and rigatoni in the sauce; toss to coat thoroughly. Simmer for an additional minute before serving.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
