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, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe stands out for its creamy garlic butter sauce and tender chicken. It’s not just about taste; it’s also easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

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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 Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• 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
• For a Cozy Family Dinner
• For an Elegant Dinner Party
• For Meal Prepping
• For Kid-Friendly Options
• 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 another type of pasta?
• What can I use instead of heavy cream?
• How do I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
• How long does it take to prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates the pasta experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, allowing for easy substitutions based on what you have at home.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavor, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra cheese for an elegant touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Pasta strainer
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and creating the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
• Pasta strainer: Ensures proper draining of pasta while retaining the necessary water for the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an enjoyable experience that enhances its rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

For a Cozy Family Dinner

• Pair with Garlic Bread – The warm, buttery garlic bread complements the pasta perfectly.
• Serve with a Side Salad – A fresh green salad adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the dish.

For an Elegant Dinner Party

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Top your dish with additional parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Offer Extra Parmesan – Provide a small bowl of freshly grated Parmesan for guests to sprinkle on their servings.

For Meal Prepping

• Store in Airtight Containers – This dish maintains its flavor well when stored properly, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Reheat Gently – Warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave to preserve creaminess.

For Kid-Friendly Options

• Add Veggies – Toss in some steamed broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Serve with a Sweet Dessert – Finish off the meal with chocolate chip cookies or fruit for a sweet ending.

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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.

• Boldly Season Your Chicken – Make sure to season your chicken well before cooking; this enhances its flavor throughout the dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh garlic and herbs for a more vibrant taste compared to dried options.
• Monitor Sauce Thickness – Adjust the sauce thickness by adding reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Sear Chicken Properly – Ensure your skillet is hot enough to sear the chicken, creating a nice golden crust that locks in moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Enhance your meal by serving side dishes that complement Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli – Tender broccoli florets roasted in garlic and olive oil add nutritional value and flavor.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce mixed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a smoky touch that pairs well with pasta dishes.
4. Caprese Salad – Sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a delicious Italian-inspired side.
5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich mashed potatoes bring comfort and balance to the meal’s flavors.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor that complements the creamy dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish.

• Neglecting the Pasta Water – Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining! This starchy water helps thicken the sauce and adds flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken – Sear the chicken just until golden brown. Overcooking can make it tough; aim for tender, juicy pieces instead.
• Rushing the Garlic – Sauté garlic briefly to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste, ruining your sauce’s flavor.
• Skipping the Seasoning – Don’t forget to season each layer! Season the chicken well and taste the sauce before serving to enhance overall flavor.
• Using Pre-grated Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has superior flavor compared to pre-grated options. Invest a little time for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or reserved pasta water if needed to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk. Just be aware that this may change the creaminess of the final dish.

How do I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. You can also adjust seasonings based on personal preference.

How long does it take to prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep. Just follow storage guidelines for best results.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Try this recipe for a cozy dinner that satisfies every craving!