Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Be generous with the seasoning to ensure the chicken is flavorful. You can also add a little extra garlic powder if you love that garlic kick.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you prepare the sauce. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to your sauce. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Next, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a rich, creamy texture. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, stir in the butter and continue to cook until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Add the sliced chicken on top and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the creamy, garlicky chicken and pasta in bowls or plates, and enjoy the comforting goodness!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Sodium: 720
- Protein: 35