Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and creamy pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, this recipe brings together simplicity and elegance. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
• Step 5: Combine Everything
• Step 6: Serve and Garnish
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add a Side of Bread
• Include a Flavorful Vegetable Dish
• Garnish Creatively
• How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that coats the rigatoni beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration with friends.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
• One-Pan Dish: Less cleanup is required since most of the cooking happens in one skillet, making it convenient for busy cooks.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Gathering these items beforehand can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the rigatoni pasta to perfection.
• Skillet: Used for searing the chicken and creating the luscious garlic butter sauce.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for safely preparing your chicken and garlic.

Ingredients

For this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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 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 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in heavy cream; let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If needed, stir in reserved pasta water to adjust thickness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the skillet; toss it in the sauce. Add rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat; garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

With this easy-to-follow recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time! Enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan can elevate your dining experience. This dish not only offers a burst of flavors but also pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most out of your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complements the richness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing touch that balances the dish.

Add a Side of Bread

• Garlic Bread – Warm and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping in any leftover sauce.
• Focaccia – Soft focaccia topped with herbs can soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Include a Flavorful Vegetable Dish

• Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a vibrant green element and enhances the overall presentation.
• Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach with garlic makes for a healthy and colorful side dish.

Garnish Creatively

• Extra Parmesan – Offering freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table allows guests to customize their servings.
• Chopped Herbs – Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top provides a pop of color and freshness.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

To achieve the best version of this delicious dish, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Cook until just golden brown to keep it tender; overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Adjust Seasoning as Needed – Taste the sauce before serving; adding salt or pepper can enhance flavors based on personal preference.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes lets flavors meld together for an even better taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Complementing your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan with suitable side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair well with rich pasta dishes.
2. Grilled Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a delightful crunch alongside the creamy pasta.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crisp contrast that balances the richness of the main dish.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies adds texture and health benefits without overpowering flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or meat create a colorful, hearty side that complements pasta nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan to new heights. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Using cold ingredients – Adding cold cream or broth can shock the sauce and affect its consistency. Let these ingredients come to room temperature before using them.
• Not scraping the pan – Ignoring those browned bits in the skillet means missing out on flavor. Scrape the pan when making your sauce to capture all that deliciousness.
• Forgetting the reserved pasta water – This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s thickness. Always reserve some before draining your pasta!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water while stirring until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

How can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste for added flavor!

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni works beautifully, you can substitute with penne or farfalle based on preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for easy lunches throughout the week.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful blend of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to personalize it according to your tastes or dietary needs. Try it out, and enjoy a heartwarming meal that’s sure to impress!