Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings an irresistible combination of flavors to your table. With tender chicken, creamy garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, it’s a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The rich taste of Parmesan adds a savory touch that will impress both family and guests alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
• Step 5: Combine Everything
• Step 6: Serve and Garnish
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With a Side Salad
• As a Meal Prep Option
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• How can I make this dish healthier?
• Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
• How long does it take to prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
• What should I serve with this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor – The garlic butter sauce combined with Parmesan creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Meal – Enjoy it as a cozy family dinner or serve it at gatherings for a sophisticated touch.
• Customizable – Feel free to add vegetables or adjust seasoning to suit your taste.
• Satisfying Comfort Food – Creamy pasta dishes are always a hit, providing warmth and comfort in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Essential for cooking the rigatoni evenly until it’s al dente.
• Skillet – Perfect for searing chicken and making the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Help ensure accurate measurements for ingredients, leading to consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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)

For Garnish

• 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, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 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 minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Add rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for about 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.

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only easy to prepare but also delivers on flavor, making it an ideal dish for any occasion!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Family Style

• Serve the dish in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for family gatherings.

Individual Plates

• Plate the pasta neatly in individual bowls, garnishing each with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. This is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the chicken and rigatoni with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Portion out servings into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. Simply reheat before enjoying!

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm crusty bread or garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional Parmesan or even mozzarella on top before serving. Broil briefly for a melty finish.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

To elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, consider these handy tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients – Use fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Aim for al dente rigatoni so it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning based on your taste preferences.
• Experiment with Flavors – Add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor complexity.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Garnish Generously – Fresh herbs not only add color but also enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Pairing side dishes can enhance your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice that perfectly complements the creamy pasta sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing add crunch and freshness to your meal.
3. Steamed Broccoli – A simple side that provides color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted until tender offer great flavor.
5. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings a delightful crunch that pairs well with rich pasta dishes.
7. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance while complementing the creamy rigatoni.
8. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a fun touch, especially during summer gatherings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Always cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Neglecting Chicken Seasoning: Skipping seasoning on the chicken results in bland meat. Make sure to season well before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Not Saving Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Always set aside some water to adjust the consistency later.
• Using Pre-grated Cheese: Using pre-grated Parmesan can compromise the dish’s flavor. Opt for freshly grated cheese for better taste and texture.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Serving immediately after cooking can lead to a messy plate. Allow the dish to rest briefly before serving for better presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with penne or fusilli if desired. Just keep an eye on cooking times.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of butter and cream.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers would be great additions for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

The total time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal option.

What should I serve with this dish?

Garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs beautifully with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only comforting but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices according to your taste preferences. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!