Irresistible Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Rigatoni Recipe

Indulging in a plate of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cheesy blanket after a long day. Imagine the aromatic embrace of sizzling garlic mingling with rich butter, inviting you to take that first heavenly bite. As the tender chicken dances in creamy delight, you know this dish will become your new weeknight favorite.

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those evenings when takeout just wouldn’t cut it. With my kitchen smelling like a five-star restaurant and my taste buds singing, I realized I had struck culinary gold. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a family feast, this creamy concoction is perfect for any occasion, promising delightful flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size or appetite.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; they offer the best flavor boost to our creamy sauce.

• Unsalted Butter: A couple of tablespoons will enrich the sauce without adding too much salt.

• Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp here!

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully and adds depth to the flavor.

For the Pasta:

• Rigatoni Pasta: About one pound will do; its ridges capture all that glorious sauce!

For Seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this dish—a pinch here and there goes a long way!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on the counter so you can easily access them while cooking. This avoids any frantic searches mid-sauté!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining—it’ll be magic in our sauce later!

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add some butter and let it melt before placing seasoned chicken breasts into the pan. Cook for about six minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In that same skillet (don’t wash it yet!), add more butter along with minced garlic—sizzle that aroma! Then pour in heavy cream and stir until combined. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the creamy goodness. Toss in your rigatoni along with that reserved pasta water until everything is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve Up Your Creation

Plate up generous servings of creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired—just so it looks as good as it tastes!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then boil your rigatoni while simultaneously whipping up that creamy Parmesan sauce. This method saves time and ensures everything is perfectly cooked.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch out the chicken for turkey or beef if you’re feeling adventurous! Spice things up with red pepper flakes or add seasonal veggies like spinach and bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep everything creamy and delicious.

Cooking this dish always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where everyone practically fought over the last bite. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints!

FAQs:

What is the best way to cook chicken for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?

To achieve the best flavor in your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, start by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper. Sear it in a hot skillet with butter until golden brown on both sides. This method locks in moisture, ensuring the chicken remains juicy. Cooking it thoroughly will enhance its taste, allowing the garlic butter sauce to mingle beautifully with the pasta.

Can I use a different pasta for this recipe?

While rigatoni works wonderfully for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce due to its shape, you can certainly substitute it with other pasta types. Penne or fusilli are good alternatives that capture the creamy sauce effectively. Choose any pasta that holds sauces well to enjoy a delightful meal without compromising texture or flavor.

How can I make the sauce thicker for my Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni?

To thicken the sauce in your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, consider adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or using plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar. You can also simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, enhancing its richness without additional ingredients. Adjusting these elements will yield a deliciously creamy consistency suited to your preference.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni?

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni enhances your meal experience. A fresh garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the dish. Additionally, garlic bread is an excellent option for soaking up any leftover sauce. These sides balance out the meal perfectly, making it hearty and satisfying.

Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

In summary, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish full of flavor. The juicy chicken combined with rich garlic butter and creamy Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience. By following simple cooking techniques and ingredient substitutions, you ensure a satisfying meal suitable for everyone. Enjoy your culinary creation as it brings warmth to your table!

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

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

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Description

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is your go-to comfort food that combines tender chicken with rigatoni pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Each bite is a delightful blend of creaminess and savory goodness, sure to impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by mincing the garlic and measuring out all components.
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, reserving half a cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, add rigatoni and reserved pasta water, tossing everything together until well-coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or herbs if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
• Calories: 580
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: Swap chicken for turkey or beef for variations. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toss in seasonal veggies like spinach for added nutrition.