Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. This indulgent dish combines tender, juicy chicken pieces with perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta, all coated in a rich, creamy garlic butter Parmesan sauce. The flavors come together in a harmonious blend of savory, garlicky goodness with just the right amount of cheesy decadence. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or want to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni recipe checks all the boxes for an unforgettable dish. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors is absolutely irresistible, with the creamy Parmesan sauce offering a comforting richness that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and al dente rigatoni. It’s also versatile—you can easily customize the recipe with your favorite herbs, vegetables, or proteins. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy this mouthwatering meal.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 670
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pasta

• 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
• Water and 1 teaspoon salt for boiling

Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnishes

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika for a flavorful base.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Sprinkle the flour over the garlic butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This step thickens the sauce and adds a creamy texture.
• Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it becomes rich and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the Ingredients

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly in the sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Transfer the creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni to serving plates or bowls.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Rigatoni Pasta

Rigatoni is an excellent choice for this dish because its ridged surface and tube shape help capture the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. However, penne, ziti, or even fettuccine can be substituted if you don’t have rigatoni on hand.

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for their tenderness and quick cooking time. Thighs offer a slightly richer flavor due to their higher fat content, but breasts are leaner and just as delicious when cooked properly.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for a smooth and rich sauce. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can result in a grainy texture.

Garlic

The garlic is the star of the sauce, adding a fragrant depth of flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves for the best results.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream creates a luscious, velvety texture for the sauce. For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce may not be as thick.

Technique Tips

• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the chicken to ensure even browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Prevent Clumping: Whisk the flour and liquid together thoroughly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate Parmesan cheese fresh from the block to ensure it melts seamlessly into the sauce.
• Control Sauce Thickness: Use reserved pasta water sparingly to adjust the consistency of the sauce without diluting its flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Baked Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake until bubbly for a hearty pasta bake.
• Individual Portions: Serve the dish in ramekins for an elegant, portion-controlled presentation.
• Vegetable Medley: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to the pasta for a colorful and nutritious twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the heavy cream and chicken broth to room temperature before adding them to the skillet to prevent the sauce from curdling.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Mushroom Garlic Butter Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory addition.
• Spicy Cajun Version: Replace Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a spicy, smoky flavor profile.
• Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood version.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken, dairy-free butter, and a cashew cream sauce for a vegan-friendly version.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before combining.
• Reheating Tip: Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap rigatoni with whole wheat or chickpea-based pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Low-Fat Dairy: Use low-fat cream or evaporated milk to reduce calories and fat.
• Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for a boost of vitamins and color.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This dish is versatile enough for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Pair it with:

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for dipping into the sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect dinner.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A deep skillet or sauté pan works best for combining the sauce, chicken, and pasta.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Microplane Grater: Perfect for finely grating Parmesan cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works well with this dish. Long pasta like fettuccine can also be used.

2. How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Ensure the heat is on low when adding the cream, and stir constantly to create a smooth sauce.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance. Combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving for the best results.

4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s texture.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.

6. Is there a way to lighten this recipe?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese for a lighter version.

7. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Asiago or Pecorino Romano can be used as alternatives, though they will have a stronger flavor.

8. Can I add other proteins?
Absolutely! Shrimp, sausage, or even crispy bacon make great additions to this dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a luxurious sauce into one unforgettable dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. With endless customization options and plenty of tips to ensure success, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this indulgent, crowd-pleasing meal—you won’t regret it!