Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe offers rich flavors and comforting textures. The combination of tender chicken, velvety Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni makes it an irresistible choice for pasta lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Comfort: The rich garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce create a mouthwatering experience that brings warmth to any table.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep. This dish suits all dining needs!
- Kid-Friendly: The appealing flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the creamy goodness as leftovers! It reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan, saving on cleanup time.
- Pasta pot: Ensures even cooking of the rigatoni while providing enough space to avoid sticking.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your sauce.
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
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 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. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté 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 and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until smooth. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add cooked chicken back into the skillet along with rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a delightful meal!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.
With a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan shavings, and croutons dressed in Caesar dressing complement the creamy pasta wonderfully.
- Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery kick that balances the richness of the dish.
With Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Focaccia: Soft and herby focaccia brings a delightful texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
With Wine
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the chicken and cream.
- Pinot Grigio: This crisp white wine offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.
As Leftovers
- Reheat with Broth: If you have leftovers, reheat them with a splash of chicken broth to revive the creaminess.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra health boost.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To achieve the best results when making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the rigatoni al dente so it holds its shape and texture in the creamy sauce.
- Control Heat While Cooking: Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper slowly to achieve your desired flavor balance.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Pairing side dishes with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to try.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds color and crunch.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil, roasted asparagus makes for a flavorful accompaniment.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add a healthy twist without overwhelming flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly with creamy dishes, offering sweet crunchiness.
- Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds brightness to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking to enhance its flavor.
- Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked rigatoni can become mushy. Follow the package instructions for al dente pasta, then drain it promptly to maintain its texture.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect the sauce’s creaminess. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and consistency in your sauce.
- Skipping the garlic sauté: Garlic needs just a minute to release its flavor. Don’t skip this step; sauté it until fragrant before adding other ingredients for a more robust taste.
- Rushing the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps thicken it properly. Give it time to develop flavors, so the dish is rich and satisfying.
- Forgetting the garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Don’t forget this simple but important finishing touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The dish will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C); cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little cornstarch as a lighter alternative.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes along with the garlic for an extra kick of heat that complements the creaminess well.
Can I use other types of pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! Penne or fusilli would work well too, offering different textures while still being delicious with the sauce.
Is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep as it holds up well when stored correctly and reheats nicely.
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or even by substituting chicken with shrimp. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!
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 a delightful dish that brings rich flavors and comforting textures to your table. This indulgent recipe features tender chicken pieces enveloped in a velvety Parmesan sauce, complemented by hearty rigatoni pasta. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish is quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish. The creamy goodness is not just mouthwatering but also kid-friendly, making it a hit with both adults and children alike. Whether enjoyed fresh or as delicious leftovers, this creamy pasta dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning and sauté until golden (6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; simmer until smooth (2-3 minutes).
- Return chicken and rigatoni to the skillet; toss until well coated in sauce.
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
