Indulge in the luscious flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, a dish that’s like a warm hug on a chilly night. Imagine juicy chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce, nestled among perfectly cooked rigatoni, all topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan that melts into heavenly goodness. flavorful pesto pinwheels As you take that first bite, the garlic wafts through the air, promising comfort and satisfaction that’s simply irresistible.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a memory-maker! Picture this: cozy gatherings with friends or family where laughter fills the room as you serve this creamy delight. The aroma will draw everyone to the kitchen like moths to a flame, and soon enough, you’re sharing stories while devouring this masterpiece. Trust me; you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- The flavor profile combines rich, savory notes that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Not only does it look stunning on the plate with its creamy texture and vibrant colors, but it’s also versatile enough for any occasion—great for date night or family feasts!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
For more inspiration, check out this easy chicken enchiladas recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts. Adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; trust me, no one likes sad garlic.
Rigatoni Pasta: This tube-shaped pasta captures all that luscious sauce beautifully—perfect for twirling.
Butter: A good quality unsalted butter brings richness without being overly salty.
Heavy Cream: For that dreamy creaminess that makes your heart sing—go big or go home!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts better and packs more flavor than pre-shredded.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget to taste as you go!
For the Sauce:
Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano and basil adds depth to the sauce—no need to travel to Italy!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.
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 countertop. It’s much easier when everything is within reach. Chop up your chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 10-12 minutes should do it.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Toss in your chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Whip Up That Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t clean it; we want those flavors!), add more butter along with minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—around one minute—and then pour in your heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Seasonings
Sprinkle in your parmesan cheese along with dried Italian herbs. Stir until melted and smooth—the dreamiest sauce ever! Return the chicken back into the skillet along with drained rigatoni.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Gently toss everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy sauce. Taste it; adjust seasoning if necessary—you know you want it perfect!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now get ready for compliments because this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is about to impress even your pickiest eater!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is a symphony of flavors.
- It’s not only a comforting dish but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
- The luxurious sauce clings to each piece of pasta, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to achieve a golden crust, then cook the rigatoni while you whip up that decadent garlic butter sauce. Timing is everything, so keep an eye on both pans for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by swapping out the rigatoni for penne or adding spinach for some greenery. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can kick up the heat if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive that creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients like fresh garlic and real parmesan for the best flavor.
- Slicing the chicken thinly ensures it cooks evenly and quickly.
- Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer to develop rich flavors.
Sometimes I make this dish when I’m feeling nostalgic about family dinners. My aunt used to whip it up every Sunday, and now I can’t help but smile when I see my friends devouring it just as we did back then!
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
To create this delicious dish, you will need chicken breasts, rigatoni pasta, garlic, butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Additionally, seasonings such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs enhance the flavor. delicious cheese and egg casserole Fresh parsley can be used for garnish. This combination yields a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the rigatoni while keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.
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 takes approximately 30 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for prep work like chopping garlic and cutting chicken, followed by 20 minutes of cooking time. quick chicken parmesan recipe The quick preparation makes this dish ideal for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I substitute any ingredients in Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
Yes! You can easily customize this recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also use zucchini noodles or whole wheat rigatoni as an alternative to traditional pasta. If you’re vegetarian, substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a satisfying meal that retains its creamy texture.
Is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is perfect for meal prep. Cooked portions can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving. To maintain freshness, consider keeping the sauce separate from the pasta until you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare while packed with flavor. With tender chicken coated in a rich garlic butter sauce over al dente rigatoni, it’s sure to please your taste buds. buttery cloverleaf rolls Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe offers both convenience and satisfaction. Enjoy every creamy bite as you share this comfort food classic with family or friends!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni. Ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is simple yet delivers on flavor. Each bite is infused with garlic, butter, and Parmesan, creating a deliciously satisfying experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano and basil blend)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- 1. Prepare ingredients: Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- 2. Cook rigatoni: Boil salted water, add rigatoni, and cook until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain.
- 3. Sauté chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- 4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add more butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (1 minute). Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; mix well.
- 5. Add cheese & seasonings: Incorporate Parmesan and dried herbs; stir until melted. Return chicken to skillet with drained rigatoni; combine well.
- 6. Serve: Plate the dish with remaining sauce drizzled on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or other vegetables. To lighten the dish, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use whole wheat rigatoni. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
