Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. Perfect for family meals or cozy gatherings, it features tender chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with hearty rigatoni. The addition of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making this recipe both visually appealing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish can be whipped up in just 35 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe fits any setting.
• Comforting Ingredients: Featuring chicken and pasta, it’s a meal that warms the heart and fills the stomach.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike with its creamy goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready ensures you can focus on creating your delicious meal without interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking pot for pasta
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken and creating the creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Cooking pot for pasta: Essential for boiling rigatoni to al dente perfection.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps ensure precise ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 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

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta

Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken:
Add another tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic.
Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
Bring it to a simmer and let cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet:
Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes so that it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Pasta

Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet:
Add in the drained rigatoni pasta as well.
Toss everything together until both chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Garnish your delicious meal with freshly chopped parsley:
Serve immediately while warm, enjoying every comforting bite!

This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is sure to become a favorite recipe for any occasion!

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

Serving your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing complement the richness of the dish.
• Greek Salad: Fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese add a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Arugula Salad: Lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette, arugula offers a peppery bite that balances the flavors.

Add a Bread Option

• Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of bread spread with garlic butter are perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls make for an excellent side to enjoy with each bite of pasta.

Include a Flavorful Beverage

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay enhances the dish’s creamy elements.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon can refresh your palate between bites.

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How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

To achieve the best results with your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• seasoning: Season your chicken well before cooking to bring out its flavor.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
• Pasta al dente: Cook rigatoni until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add extra chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Garnish generously: Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds color and freshness to each serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Pairing side dishes with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color; drizzle with olive oil for added flavor.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil and seasonings before roasting for a savory side.
3. Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooking spinach seasoned with garlic makes for a healthy accompaniment.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a light touch to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that pairs nicely with creamy dishes.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Slice zucchini into rounds, grill them lightly, and season for a delicious veggie side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cook chicken just until golden and cooked through. Overcooking makes it dry and tough.
• Skipping the Pasta Cooking Instructions: Always follow the package instructions for rigatoni. Undercooked pasta won’t absorb the sauce well.
• Not Using Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic brings out better flavor than pre-minced. Use fresh cloves for an aromatic boost.
• Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta water before draining. It can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t skip salt and pepper! Season at every step for a well-balanced dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?

This dish features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce combined with rigatoni pasta and creamy Parmesan cheese.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or substitute chicken with shrimp for variety.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simmer it longer to reduce it further, or add more grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni makes excellent leftovers and is perfect for meal prep during busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors make it a favorite among family members. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, ensuring that each meal is uniquely yours!