Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful blend of flavors that makes any meal feel special. With tender chicken pieces enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce and tossed with rigatoni, this dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Its rich taste combined with the comforting texture will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it great for busy evenings.
- Rich Flavor – The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates the rigatoni and chicken.
- Versatile Ingredients – Easily adapt the ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.
- Impressive Presentation – Garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, this meal looks as good as it tastes.
- Family-Friendly – Both kids and adults will enjoy this creamy pasta dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. These items will help you create your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot – Ideal for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
- Skillet – Perfect for searing chicken and creating your rich garlic butter sauce.
- Cooking spoon – Helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures correct ingredient quantities for balanced flavor.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you will need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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)
- 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 let it simmer for about 2 minutes while scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and allow it to simmer for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If needed, stir in some reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the sauce. Add rigatoni to mix until fully coated in sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm for a delicious meal!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful way to impress your family or guests. This dish can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the meal even further.
With Fresh Salad
- A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
With Garlic Bread
- Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate, adding a crunchy texture to your meal.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provide a colorful and nutritious side that balances the creamy pasta.
With Steamed Broccoli
- Simple steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients while remaining light enough not to overshadow the main dish.
With Wine Pairing
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors of the garlic butter chicken and adds a sophisticated touch.
With Grated Parmesan on Top
- Offering extra grated Parmesan at the table allows guests to add more cheese according to their preference for an even richer flavor.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Perfecting Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Cook until just golden brown; overcooking can lead to dry chicken.
- Reserve Pasta Water – The starchy pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Simmer for Flavor – Allowing the sauce to simmer helps meld all ingredients together for a richer taste.
- Garnish Generously – Use fresh parsley and extra cheese as garnishes for added color and flavor contrast.
- Taste as You Go – Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to ensure that every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To round out your meal featuring Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, consider these delightful side dishes. They pair well with this creamy pasta dish while providing a variety of textures and flavors.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and tanginess.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar create a refreshing side.
- Herbed Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs complements the chicken without competing for attention.
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus offers a smoky flavor that works beautifully with creamy dishes.
- Minestrone Soup – A hearty vegetable soup provides warmth and comfort alongside your main dish.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze bring depth of flavor through caramelization.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms can serve as an elegant appetizer before diving into dinner.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies adds lightness to balance the richness of the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan experience even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
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Skipping the Pasta Water – Many forget to reserve pasta water. This starchy liquid helps thicken your sauce and bind it to the rigatoni.
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Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden-brown color and remove it from heat as soon as it’s cooked through.
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Using Pre-grated Cheese – Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt as well. Grate fresh cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
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Ignoring Seasoning – Failing to season at each step can dull flavors. Season the chicken, sauce, and pasta for a balanced taste.
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Not Tasting Before Serving – Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary to enhance flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni works well, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.
How do I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
You can add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it great for busy weeknights.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Serve this dish alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan recipe is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties—give it a try!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 people 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion. Featuring tender chicken enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich taste and easy preparation. In just 30 minutes, you can serve your family a delightful dinner that not only satisfies hunger but also pleases the palate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this creamy pasta dish garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Sear seasoned chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown; set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add chicken broth to simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; mix until smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Combine chicken and rigatoni with the sauce; simmer briefly to coat well.
- Garnish with parsley and extra cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
