Irresistible Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

Recipe By:
Cathy
Updated:

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is like a warm hug from your favorite chef—comforting, delightful, and just plain irresistible. Picture tender chicken simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly coating al dente rigatoni pasta. Perfect Pie Crust Recipe Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan The aroma alone will have your neighbors knocking at your door, wondering if you’re hosting a five-star restaurant experience.

If you think this dish sounds mouthwatering, wait until you taste it! This recipe is the perfect solution for any weeknight dinner or when you’re trying to impress someone special. Pesto Pinwheels for Flavor Just imagine twirling that pasta around your fork while the creamy sauce coats every bite, creating an explosion of flavors that you won’t soon forget.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • The flavor profile combines garlic richness with a cheesy finish that delights the palate.
  • Visually, the creamy sauce and colorful ingredients create an inviting plate that looks like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough for family dinners or date nights, adapting easily to suit all occasions.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

For more inspiration, check out this crispy chicken alfredo recipe.

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

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; they cook quickly and are easy to slice.

  • Fresh Garlic: Use at least 4 cloves of fresh garlic for that robust flavor that makes this dish sing.

  • Butter: Nothing says comfort food like butter; opt for unsalted so you can control the seasoning.

  • Heavy Cream: This is essential for achieving the creamy texture; don’t skimp here!

  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds incredible depth; trust me, the pre-grated stuff can’t compete.

  • Rigatoni Pasta: This shape holds onto the sauce beautifully; feel free to sub in any pasta you love.

For seasoning:

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors; season generously.

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

Recipe preparation

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

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop. Chop the garlic finely so it releases its glorious aroma when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, add your rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside—don’t rinse! You want that starchy goodness.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot pan. Cook each side for about six minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest.

Step 4: Create That Sauce

In the same skillet (the one filled with delicious chicken drippings), add more butter if needed, then toss in your minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute—and then pour in heavy cream. Stir well before adding freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice your rested chicken into strips and return it to the pan along with the cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together until well coated with that luxurious sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer generous portions onto plates or into bowls. For a final touch of decadence, sprinkle extra parmesan on top and perhaps some fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

Enjoy your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that heavenly sauce!

You Must Know

  • This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience.
  • With rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering.
  • You’ll want to make this a regular on your menu!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to achieve that beautiful golden crust. While the chicken rests, cook the rigatoni in salted water. Finally, whip up the creamy garlic butter sauce to bring everything together in a delicious embrace.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrients. You can also swap out the rigatoni for any pasta shape you prefer. Experiment with herbs and spices to suit your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; it makes a world of difference in this dish.
  • Ensure your chicken breasts are even in thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Don’t skip resting the chicken before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender.

Sometimes, I make this dish when I want to impress my friends at dinner parties. The way they rave about it makes me feel like a culinary superstar!

FAQs :

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

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with rich, creamy sauce. The rigatoni pasta absorbs the flavors beautifully, making it a comforting meal. The garlic butter enhances the chicken’s taste, while the parmesan adds a nutty richness. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter steak recipe recipe.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?

Preparing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta, sautéing the chicken, and creating the creamy sauce. Easy Baked Penne Pasta With all ingredients ready, you can enjoy this delicious meal in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings when you crave something hearty.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce ahead of time. To do this, cook the dish as usual, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove or microwave. However, keep in mind that fresh pasta tends to hold up better than leftovers due to potential texture changes.

What variations can I try with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?

You can easily customize Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. For a twist, consider swapping out chicken for shrimp or using whole wheat rigatoni for a healthier alternative. Additionally, experimenting with different types of cheese can enhance the flavor and create a unique dish each time.

Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce :

In conclusion, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce offers a delightful combination of flavors that will satisfy your cravings. This dish is quick to prepare, making it suitable for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with various ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy this rich and comforting meal that everyone at the table will love!

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with perfectly cooked rigatoni in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, promising to delight your taste buds with its creamy texture and savory flavors. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that will impress family and friends alike.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients by mincing garlic and measuring pasta.
  2. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté for approximately 6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from pan and let rest before slicing.
  4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream, stir well, then add parmesan cheese.
  5. Return sliced chicken and cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
  • Calories: 670
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 24g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: - For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. - Substitute chicken with shrimp or use whole wheat rigatoni for a healthier option. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.

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