Indulging in a plate of creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is like wrapping yourself in a deliciously cheesy blanket on a chilly evening. The rich aroma of garlic wafts through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds and making it impossible to resist. pesto pinwheels recipe cheesy egg casserole Every bite bursts with flavors that dance together, creating a symphony of comfort that feels like home.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a comforting embrace after a long day or the star of your next dinner party. Picture yourself twirling forkfuls of perfectly cooked rigatoni enveloped in that luscious sauce, with tender chicken pieces nestled among them. You can almost hear your taste buds sing! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving some soul-soothing goodness, this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni is bound to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni is not only easy to prepare but also delivers an explosion of flavor.
- Its visual appeal will make your dinner table pop with delight.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, you can customize it based on what’s in your pantry for ultimate versatility.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, easily adjustable based on your serving size.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to ensure maximum flavor impact.
Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully; cook it al dente for the best texture.
Unsalted Butter: A must for that rich creaminess; unsalted allows you to control the seasoning.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens; it creates a velvety texture that’s irresistible.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds depth and richness; always better than pre-grated!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to enhance flavor without overpowering the dish.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds instant flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
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
Start by gathering all your ingredients—this will save you from running around like a headless chicken mid-cooking! Chop the garlic finely and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you work on the sauce.
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 skillet. Cook each side for about six minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and slice into thin strips.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter followed by minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about one minute). Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Gradually whisk in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce along with sliced chicken. Stir until everything is coated evenly—trust me, this step is crucial!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer generous portions onto plates or bowls. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy every savory bite!
Now you have a rich, satisfying meal ready to impress family or friends—making them think you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen all day!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
- The rich flavors and comforting textures will make your dinner table the place to be.
- You can whip it up quickly for busy weeknights or impress at gatherings.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the rigatoni while preparing the velvety Parmesan sauce. This sequence ensures everything comes together beautifully, with each element remaining fresh and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add spinach for an extra nutrient boost. Experiment with different cheese types like mozzarella or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Customize it to match your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture, heating gently on the stove.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat your chicken dry before searing; this helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Never overcrowd the pan while cooking; give each piece room to breathe!
- Lastly, don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking; it keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Sometimes, I whip this dish up when friends come over, and their delighted faces are priceless. It’s become a staple for cozy gatherings, making everyone feel at home with every bite!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
To prepare Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, gather chicken breasts, rigatoni pasta, garlic, butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. You’ll also need seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to enhance the flavor. Fresh parsley can be used as a garnish. Make sure to have all these ingredients on hand to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni?
Making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. This includes the time needed to cook the pasta, sauté the chicken, and prepare the creamy sauce. It’s a quick yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this crispy chicken alfredo recipe.
Can I substitute any ingredients in this creamy pasta recipe?
Yes, you can customize your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni by substituting certain ingredients. For instance, you can use whole wheat rigatoni for a healthier option or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, if you’re looking for a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream while still retaining richness in flavor.
Is Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni is great for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk or cream when warming up the dish to maintain its creamy texture. This recipe ensures you have a tasty meal ready whenever hunger strikes. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter steak recipe recipe.
Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce :
In conclusion, Creamy Garlic Butter chicken Parmesan recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with substitutions to suit your dietary needs. Try this delightful recipe today for a comforting meal that satisfies!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Succulent chicken, al dente rigatoni, and a rich, velvety parmesan sauce come together to create a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The enticing aroma of garlic combined with creamy butter elevates this pasta dish to a new level of indulgence. Serve it up for family or friends and watch as they savor each delicious mouthful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by chopping garlic and setting aside.
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sauté until golden brown (about 6 minutes per side). Remove from heat and slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; whisk in Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked rigatoni and sliced chicken into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, substitute chicken with shrimp or add spinach for extra nutrients. - To lighten the dish without sacrificing richness, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
