Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender chicken, hearty rigatoni, and a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is both indulgent and satisfying. Its creamy texture and delightful flavor make it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress their guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a delectable sauce that coats the chicken and pasta perfectly.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family meal or a dinner party.
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish provides warmth and satisfaction, making it the ultimate comfort food.
- Easily Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables or substitute proteins according to your preference.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your rigatoni cooks evenly and perfectly al dente.
- Colander for draining pasta: Helps remove excess water without losing any pasta pieces.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce
- 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
- 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine, then bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes so it reduces slightly.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with cooked rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together until both pasta and chicken are well coated with that delicious creamy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
Family Style Serving
- Present the dish in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm atmosphere and encourages sharing.
Individual Plates
- Serve in individual bowls for a more formal approach. Garnish each plate with extra parsley and Parmesan for an appealing touch.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up that rich, creamy sauce.
Add a Salad
- A fresh green salad pairs well with this dish. Consider a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
Wine Pairing
- Complement your meal with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The acidity will enhance the flavors of the creamy sauce.
Leftover Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to enjoy again!
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese enhance flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcook: Ensure the chicken is cooked just until golden brown to keep it juicy.
- Pasta Al Dente: Cook rigatoni until just al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference before serving.
- Thicken Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding cream and cheese.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or broccoli into the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Pairing side dishes with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for mopping up sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the rich pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add color and nutrition.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a refreshing crunch alongside the creamy dish.
- Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil create a flavorful contrast.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb alternative that pairs well without weighing down your meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as an indulgent side that matches well with chicken.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances out the rich flavors of this pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce can be easy, but a few common mistakes can hinder your dish’s success.
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken should be cooked just until golden and no longer pink inside. Overcooking can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
- Not seasoning enough: A bland dish lacks flavor. Make sure you season both the chicken and pasta well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a well-rounded taste.
- Skipping the pasta water: Rigatoni pasta releases starch while cooking, which helps thicken the sauce. Save a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.
- Rushing the sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer properly to blend flavors and achieve creaminess. Skipping this step can result in a watery or unflavorful sauce.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness to your dish. Don’t skip garnishing; it enhances flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if necessary to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
This dish combines tender chicken pieces with rigatoni pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce made creamy with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni works great, you can substitute it with penne or fettuccine based on your preference.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
To make it lighter, consider using whole grain pasta or reducing the amount of heavy cream by substituting it with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can incorporate veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is truly an indulgent dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal taste preferences. Whether you choose to add veggies or adjust seasonings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try!
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, bringing together succulent chicken, hearty rigatoni, and a luscious Parmesan sauce that everyone will love. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The rich flavors of garlic butter combined with creamy goodness create a delightful experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
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
- pepper
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, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth; simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth and creamy. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Combine cooked chicken and rigatoni with the sauce; toss to coat well. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
