Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan dish is a savory delight that brings together tender chicken and creamy pasta in a garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy schedules. Its rich flavors and comforting texture will impress your family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, creamy sauce, and Parmesan creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or substitute pasta types to customize the dish to your liking.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
- Impressive Presentation: The garnished dish looks beautiful on any dinner table, making it great for entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta, ensuring even cooking without crowding.
- Large skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and making the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
- Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like broth and cream to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
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 (for garnish)
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 simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Add rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for 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.
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan will surely become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. This creamy pasta dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.
With a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the richness of the dish.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
With Bread
- Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Focaccia – Soft, herb-infused focaccia adds an Italian touch and texture to your meal.
With Wine
- Chardonnay – A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs well with the garlic butter sauce and chicken.
- Pinot Grigio – Light and zesty, this wine complements the dish without overpowering it.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – A simple side of steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the meal.
- Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances flavor and presentation.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To achieve the best results when making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese significantly enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Cook until golden brown but still juicy for tender bites in your dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water – This starchy water helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
- Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to add herbs or spices that match your palate for a personal touch.
- Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Butter Chicken can round out your meal nicely. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the pasta’s richness.
- Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini is a great way to add vegetables without overwhelming flavors.
- Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to creamy sauces.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch that pairs well with pasta dishes.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf brings healthy grains into your meal while complementing other flavors.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer both nutrition and visual appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, especially when making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.
- Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions and aim for al dente. Remember, it will cook a bit more in the sauce.
- Not Seasoning the Chicken – Skipping seasoning leads to bland chicken. Make sure to season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Using Cold Ingredients – Cold ingredients can affect cooking time and texture. Ensure your chicken and cream are at room temperature before starting to achieve a better result.
- Skipping the Cheese – Parmesan adds richness and depth to the dish. Don’t skip it; always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Rushing the Sauce – Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop flavors. Take your time during this step for a creamy garlic butter sauce that complements the chicken and pasta perfectly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This dish can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts at medium power, stirring occasionally until hot. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop – Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or cream if needed to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.
What makes Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan so comforting?
The creamy garlic butter sauce combined with tender chicken and hearty rigatoni creates a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety.
How long does it take to make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from prep to table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a family favorite.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an incredibly versatile dish that suits any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy this rich, comforting meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food that seamlessly blends tender chicken, creamy rigatoni, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to for families looking for delicious and satisfying meals. The irresistible combination of flavors, enhanced by freshly grated Parmesan and a hint of Italian seasoning, guarantees to impress both kids and adults alike. Serve it garnished with fresh parsley for an appealing touch that makes it perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, add seasoned chicken pieces, and cook until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- Melt butter in the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and let simmer until thickened; mix in Parmesan cheese.
- Return chicken to skillet, add rigatoni, and toss to coat with sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
