Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that wraps you up in a warm, comforting hug of flavors, then this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic and butter, making every forkful utterly irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and gourmet taste, delivering a rich, satisfying meal that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building a sauce that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfectly coats every piece of pasta and chicken.

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta: Holds sauce beautifully with its ridges for that perfect bite.
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle depth and mild heat.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings classic Mediterranean herbs that complement the creamy sauce and chicken.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a golden perfection with a fruity note.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Builds the sauce’s rich and silky base.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses every bite with aromatic, flavorful punch.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to creamy luxuriousness.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture to the sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Gives the sauce its velvety texture and richness.
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty flavor and creamy melt.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): For an extra melty, stretchy dimension.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh herbaceous notes and color.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the rigatoni. Cook until al dente according to the package instructions—this usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. The rigatoni’s ridges and hollow shape are perfect for holding onto the sauce, so don’t overcook it. Once ready, drain the pasta and set it aside to await the flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and toss in the chicken. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor and texture. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Roux

Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet you cooked the chicken in—this helps keep all those delicious browned bits in play. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook it until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will add bitterness. Next, sprinkle in the flour and mix well to form a roux; this will thicken your sauce wonderfully, giving it that dreamy creamy texture.

Step 4: Build the Parmesan Sauce

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Then pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook and thicken for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Now, the real indulgence begins—add the Parmesan cheese and optional mozzarella. Stir until fully melted and silky smooth. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a subtle, warming heat that makes every bite a little more exciting.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken and rigatoni to the skillet with your heavenly Parmesan sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated and heated through. The sauce should cling beautifully to every piece, creating a perfect harmony of creamy, garlicky, buttery goodness. Once everything is combined, you’re ready to serve this culinary masterpiece.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over this dish adds a burst of vibrant green and a subtle, fresh flavor to balance the richness. Don’t shy away from an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top—it adds a final flourish of salty cheesiness that’s perfect for presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for added texture and nutrition. Garlic bread is always a welcome companion, soaking up every last bit of that stunning sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

You can transform this recipe into an impressive meal by serving it in individual shallow bowls, garnished with edible flowers or extra herbs for an elegant touch. Alternatively, bake it in a casserole dish topped with extra mozzarella and bake until bubbly and golden for a crowd-pleasing comfort food twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cool any leftovers to room temperature and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Keep leftovers for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to stash this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe for longer, freeze it in freezer-safe containers. It holds up well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the sauce’s silky texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating and avoid any curdling of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s ridges and shape are ideal, feel free to substitute with penne or fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times as needed to keep it al dente.

Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?

Definitely yes. The prep and active cooking time is under 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a delicious, hearty weeknight meal that doesn’t feel rushed or complicated.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms work wonderfully stirred in before serving. They add color, texture, and extra nutrition without overpowering the creamy sauce.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes provide just a gentle, warming hint of heat that enhances the flavors rather than overwhelming them. If you prefer no spice, simply leave them out.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Chicken thighs are a great alternative and bring extra juiciness and flavor. Just cut them into uniform pieces and cook until nicely browned and cooked through, which might take a minute or two longer.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a plate, and this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe does exactly that. Its rich sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a harmony that’s hard to resist. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal that your family and friends will ask for again and again.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a comforting Italian-American main course featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, creamy garlic butter and Parmesan sauce, tossed together with perfectly al dente rigatoni pasta. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a luscious and hearty meal ideal for weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta

Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is golden-brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce Base: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant without browning it. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a smooth roux, cooking for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Add Liquids and Thicken Sauce: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Incorporate Cheeses and Spices: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese (if using) until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick.
6. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken and drained rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything gently until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce and heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve warm for a rich and comforting meal.

Notes

• You can substitute penne or fettuccine pasta if rigatoni is not available.
• For added nutrition and flavor, stir in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American