When the weather gets chilly or the day has been long, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a plate of creamy pasta. Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta is one of those dishes that instantly transports you to a place of comfort and warmth. The combination of juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and rich Parmesan cheese over tender rigatoni is a surefire way to make any meal feel extra special.
This dish is a family favorite in my home and one that gets requested frequently. Whether it’s for a casual dinner with friends or a cozy night in with the family, it’s simple yet indulgent, and always hits the spot. The best part is that it’s easy to make, using ingredients that are commonly found in your kitchen. No fancy tricks or long hours spent in the kitchen just pure, delicious comfort.
It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether you’re sitting down to share a meal after a busy day or serving it up for a gathering. The creamy sauce and tender chicken are a perfect pairing for the hearty rigatoni, making it a satisfying and filling meal. And if you’re a fan of garlic, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta so irresistible is the combination of flavors that come together in such a simple way. The richness of butter, the savory notes of garlic, and the unmistakable tang of Parmesan cheese make for a sauce that is nothing short of addictive. And when you combine that with succulent chicken and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta, the result is a creamy, comforting dish that everyone will love.
This recipe is a great example of how you don’t need complex ingredients or complicated techniques to create something truly memorable. The chicken is seared to perfection, which helps lock in the juices and creates a deliciously crispy exterior. The pasta, coated in a silky, buttery sauce, absorbs all those incredible flavors. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t require a lot of time or effort to make.
Additionally, Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta can easily be customized. You can add your favorite vegetables, swap the chicken for another protein, or adjust the seasonings to your liking. It’s versatile enough to cater to different dietary preferences, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 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
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits left from the chicken. This will add even more flavor to the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the drained rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy, savory Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta!
Variation
The beauty of Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta is its versatility. Whether you have dietary restrictions, personal preferences, or just want to try something different, here are a few variations and substitutions you can make:
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Vegetarian Version: If you’re looking for a meat-free option, try swapping the chicken for a plant-based protein such as tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas. You can also opt for a hearty vegetable like roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, or zucchini as the star ingredient in place of the chicken. Simply sauté the vegetables until tender and add them to the sauce for the same creamy, delicious result.
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Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the rigatoni. There are several good gluten-free pasta brands available, including rice or corn-based options, that work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to check that your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
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Add Extra Veggies: Want to sneak in some more vegetables? This dish pairs wonderfully with spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. You can sauté the veggies along with the garlic or steam them separately and toss them in at the end. The creamy sauce complements the vegetables perfectly, adding more nutrition and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce. The spice will add a nice contrast to the richness of the dish, creating a balanced flavor profile.
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Dairy-Free Version: For those avoiding dairy, substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut oil and almond milk or coconut cream. For the Parmesan cheese, look for a vegan Parmesan option, or try a nutritional yeast-based cheese substitute for that cheesy flavor.
How to Serve
Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate it and make it even more special:
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Side Dishes: Serve this dish with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the creamy pasta. A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette works well. For a heartier side, try roasted vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or roasted carrots. These will add color and texture to your meal.
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Bread Pairings: What’s a creamy pasta dish without some bread to dip in that delicious sauce? Serve this dish with a side of warm garlic bread, toasted baguette slices, or even homemade focaccia. The bread will soak up all the extra sauce, ensuring that not a drop goes to waste.
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Extra Garnishes: For a pop of color and extra flavor, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the pasta before serving. Fresh basil or parsley can also be used as a garnish, adding both freshness and visual appeal to the plate.
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Leftover Lunch: If you have leftovers, this dish makes a great lunch the next day. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
Recipe Tips
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Pasta Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the rigatoni. The pasta should be al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness to it. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture, which won’t hold up well with the creamy sauce.
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Garlic Timing: Garlic cooks very quickly, so it’s important to watch it carefully when sautéing. If the garlic browns or burns, it can turn bitter and affect the overall flavor of the dish. Cook it just until fragrant and lightly golden.
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Creamy Sauce: If your sauce becomes too thick after combining with the pasta, add a bit of reserved pasta water or more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. This will help loosen the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
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Cheese Tip: For the best results, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese contains additives to prevent clumping, which can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce. Freshly grated cheese will melt into the sauce more easily, giving it that smooth and creamy texture we all love.
Cooking Note
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Garlic Cooking Tip: Be cautious when cooking garlic, as it can burn quickly. Once it becomes fragrant (about 30 seconds to a minute), immediately add the broth or other liquids to prevent it from turning bitter.
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Cream Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick after simmering, simply add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Pasta water is starchy and helps the sauce adhere to the pasta, making it silky and smooth.
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Chicken Preparation: To ensure your chicken remains juicy, avoid overcooking it. The chicken should be golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Consider slicing the chicken before serving, so it absorbs more of the sauce.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best in this recipe because it melts into the sauce smoothly. Pre-grated cheese can often result in a grainy texture and doesn’t blend as well.
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Pasta Cooking Tip: Always salt the water generously before adding the pasta. This not only helps flavor the noodles but also ensures that the sauce can cling better to the pasta. Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the sauce.
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Serving: Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese just before serving to add a burst of color and enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving (based on 4 servings)
- Protein: 40g per serving
- Sodium: 700mg per serving
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is a great choice due to its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes may absorb the sauce slightly differently, so adjust accordingly.
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes! If you’re looking to cut down on the creaminess or make it lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. The sauce will be slightly thinner, but it will still be delicious. For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
While it’s best to cook the chicken fresh for the best flavor and texture, you can certainly use pre-cooked chicken if you’re in a hurry. Just add it to the skillet after the garlic has been sautéed, and heat it through before adding the cream and Parmesan.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove, adding a little extra cream or broth to bring it back to its creamy texture.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta is a dish that checks all the boxes for a perfect family meal: comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The rich, creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, and Parmesan will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household, while the chicken provides the perfect amount of protein and flavor to complement the dish.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a large group, this recipe offers a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s a great canvas for customization add your favorite vegetables, swap out the protein, or make it lighter with alternative ingredients. There’s so much flexibility that you can make it your own.
With the simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in no time. The next time you’re in need of a dish that’s sure to please, Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta will be your go-to. Serve it up with a side salad, some warm garlic bread, and a glass of crisp wine, and enjoy a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
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Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 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
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits left from the chicken. This will add even more flavor to the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the drained rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy, savory Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Sodium: 700
- Protein: 40