Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines tender chicken with rich Parmesan sauce and hearty rigatoni for an indulgent experience. The creamy texture and savory taste make it a standout choice for both weeknight meals and festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 35 minutes.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich and creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Meal: This recipe works well for various occasions, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting pasta dish, making it a great option for family meals.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the leftovers the next day—this dish tastes even better after the flavors meld together overnight!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet is essential for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures the rigatoni cooks evenly while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic.
Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
Add in cooked rigatoni pasta.
Toss everything together, ensuring both chicken and pasta are well coated in sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
- Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the creamy sauce.
Add Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious Parmesan sauce.
- Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused focaccia adds an Italian touch to your meal.
Include a Beverage
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the chicken and cream.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing and palate-cleansing.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To make your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Boldly season the chicken: Ensure your chicken is well-seasoned before cooking for maximum flavor.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced options.
- Choose high-quality Parmesan: Using real Parmigiano-Reggiano will significantly improve the sauce’s taste.
- Adjust cream consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add more cheese.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only looks great but also adds freshness to each bite.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your creamy chicken rigatoni can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and mild flavor provide a nice contrast to the rich pasta dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, making it a fantastic complement.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a vibrant salad that pairs perfectly with Italian flavors.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds texture and is a healthy side choice.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil offers a delightful appetizer before the main course.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For those craving extra comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
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Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.
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Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Aim for a golden brown crust and ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
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Ignoring the sauce consistency: If you don’t let the sauce simmer enough, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to reduce slightly for that creamy texture.
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Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or pre-grated cheese can affect flavor. Always opt for fresh Parmesan cheese for a rich taste.
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Rushing the pasta cooking: Under-cooked rigatoni won’t absorb the sauce well. Follow package instructions carefully for perfectly cooked pasta.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Good for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce.
How do I make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce healthier?
You can use whole wheat rigatoni or substitute heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers would make great additions for extra nutrition and color.
What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended, but thighs also work well for added flavor and moisture.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Make sure to combine all ingredients thoroughly and avoid overheating after adding cream, which can cause separation.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni is ideal, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is an indulgent comfort food perfect for any occasion. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this delightful recipe a try; your family will love it!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The dish features tender chicken cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce enriched with creamy Parmesan. Paired with hearty rigatoni, every bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Quick to prepare, this one-pan meal takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe promises to impress your family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- Italian seasoning
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet along with rigatoni; toss to combine in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
