Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is your go-to recipe for a creamy and comforting pasta dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal features tender chicken tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it a true crowd-pleaser. With its savory depth of flavor and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that delights the palate.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a cozy family dinner or impress guests at your next gathering with minimal effort.
- Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and comforting flavors, even picky eaters will love this dish.
- One-Pan Cooking: Less cleanup is needed since everything comes together in one skillet.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot: Ideal for boiling rigatoni to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
- Large Skillet: Essential for searing chicken and making the flavorful garlic butter sauce in one pan.
- Measuring Cups/Spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for ingredients, crucial for achieving the best flavor balance.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– ½ cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
– ½ tsp black pepper
– ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Add the rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, communal atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.
Individual Plates
- For a more formal presentation, plate individual servings of the chicken and rigatoni. Garnish each plate with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for an elegant touch.
With a Side Salad
- Accompany your dish with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed in balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta nicely.
Pairing with Garlic Bread
- Serve alongside warm garlic bread for dipping. The extra garlic flavor enhances the overall experience and adds a satisfying crunch.
Wine Pairing
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish. The acidity cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
Lunch Leftovers
- Enjoy leftovers as a quick lunch option. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove for a comforting meal at work or home.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To make this dish even better, consider these tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan greatly enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Aim for al dente rigatoni to maintain texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste – Personalize your dish by adjusting salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes based on preference.
- Experiment with Herbs – Try adding fresh basil or thyme for additional aromatic notes.
- Reserve Pasta Water – Using reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
- Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh; serve right after cooking for optimal taste.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Complement your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan by including some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Caesar Salad – A classic salad featuring romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing that balances out the rich flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious; steam broccoli until tender for a bright green addition to your meal.
- Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a flavorful side that’s easy to prepare.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside your pasta dish.
- Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite before main courses.
- Zucchini Noodles – Light and healthy noodles can add an interesting texture while keeping your meal low-carb.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory pasta flavors.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil serves as an appetizer that complements Italian cuisine perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Using cold chicken – Starting with cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking for even results.
- Not salting the pasta water – Skipping salt when boiling pasta means missing out on flavor. Always add a generous amount of salt to the water for better-tasting rigatoni.
- Overcooking the garlic – Garlic can burn quickly, resulting in a bitter taste. Sauté it just until fragrant, around 30 seconds, for the best flavor.
- Ignoring the sauce consistency – A sauce that’s too thick can be unappealing. Adjust with reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
- Not garnishing – Serving without garnish can make your dish look less appealing. Always top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a beautiful finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Portion into smaller containers for easy meals later.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:
Can I use other types of pasta?
You can definitely substitute rigatoni with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
How do I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.
How do I make this dish spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a mouthwatering dish that brings comfort to any table. This creamy pasta recipe features tender chicken enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with al dente rigatoni. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this meal combines convenience and flavor, making it a true family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and one pan, you can create a delicious dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet, sauté minced garlic briefly, then add chicken broth and simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth; adjust with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Return chicken to the skillet with rigatoni; toss to coat in sauce and simmer briefly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
