Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is the perfect comfort food! It combines tender chicken, a rich Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni for a dish that’s indulgent and satisfying. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. The standout qualities include its mouthwatering flavors and simple preparation, making it a go-to choice for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from prep to table, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a rich, savory experience that is hard to resist.
- Versatile Meal: Suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions, this pasta dish can easily impress guests or satisfy family cravings.
- Comforting Dish: This creamy recipe offers all the coziness you want in comfort food, making it an ideal pick for chilly evenings.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything handy makes cooking more enjoyable.
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 sautéing chicken and combining ingredients smoothly without overcrowding.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of rigatoni while freeing up space on the stove for other tasks.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 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
For the Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain it once cooked and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook for about 6–8 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet:
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic.
Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
Bring to a simmer and let cook for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add in:
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with:
The drained rigatoni pasta
Toss everything together until both are well-coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped 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
Serving this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy Caesar dressing complement the flavors of the Parmesan sauce beautifully.
Add Garlic Bread
- Homemade Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter make for a perfect side for soaking up the luscious sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with mozzarella cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
Include Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal Veggies: Roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brings a smoky flavor that pairs well with the dish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
Finish with Wine Pairing
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the creamy elements of the dish.
- Red Wine: If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir can also complement the flavors nicely.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To master this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, consider these essential tips for perfecting your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese significantly enhance the flavor profile of your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Ensure that you cook the chicken just until golden brown to keep it juicy and tender.
- Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Season Generously: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning according to your preference for salt and pepper.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste that brightens each bite.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and freshly made, so serve it right after cooking for optimal taste.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Complementing this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce can enhance your meal even further. Here are some excellent side dishes:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic pair well, offering an extra layer of richness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance while adding vibrant color to the plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the savory flavors of the dish perfectly.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an exciting appetizer before serving pasta.
- Pasta Primavera: Another pasta option featuring seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil offers variety without overshadowing the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the most of your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, steer clear of these common pitfalls.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for perfect al dente pasta that holds up in the sauce.
- Using low-quality cheese: Using subpar Parmesan can compromise the richness of your sauce. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Not reducing the broth enough: Failing to let the chicken broth simmer can result in a watery sauce. Ensure you reduce it by simmering for a few minutes.
- Ignoring the fresh herbs: Skipping the parsley garnish can make your dish look less appealing. Fresh parsley adds color and brightness, so don’t skip it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni works beautifully, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch as a lighter alternative, though it may alter the creaminess slightly.
How do I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also use different herbs based on your preference.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce stores well, making it ideal for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is a delightful dish that combines comfort with rich flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding vegetables or using different types of pasta. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests. This delightful recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, mixed with al dente rigatoni and generously coated in creamy Parmesan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- salt
- black pepper
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package directions; drain and keep warm.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until golden brown (6–8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add chicken broth; simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; cook until smooth (2–3 minutes).
- Return chicken and pasta to the skillet; toss until well coated with the sauce.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
