Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together flavors of rich garlic butter and creamy Parmesan, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner with guests, this pasta dish stands out with its tender chicken and satisfying rigatoni. Quick to prepare, it promises to be both a crowd-pleaser and a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a savory depth that elevates simple ingredients.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or as part of a larger meal, it pairs wonderfully with salads or bread.
- Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Easily Scalable: Adjust the ingredient quantities to serve more people without complicating the cooking process.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s helpful to gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the rigatoni pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing chicken and making the garlic butter sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for perfect flavor balance.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping garlic and chicken quick and efficient.
Ingredients
For this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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)
- 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, and cook for about 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 about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for approximately 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 about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If the sauce becomes 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 noodles into the mix until fully coated. Let everything simmer together for about 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm for an unforgettable meal experience!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is all about presentation and complementing the dish’s rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
Family-Style Serving
- Present the garlic butter chicken in a large bowl or platter, allowing guests to serve themselves. This creates a warm, communal atmosphere at the table.
Individual Bowls
- For a more refined option, serve the pasta in individual bowls. Garnish each with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for an elegant touch.
Pair with a Side Salad
- A crisp green salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens, can balance the richness of the dish. Toss with a light vinaigrette for freshness.
Bread on the Side
- Offer crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the delicious sauce. This adds a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy pasta.
Wine Pairing
- Pair this meal with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in these wines complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Leftover Storage
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To achieve perfection in making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Aim for golden-brown pieces by cooking just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This keeps them tender.
- Reserve Pasta Water – Always save some pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
- Adjust Creaminess – If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute part of it with milk.
- Experiment with Cheese – While Parmesan is classic, try adding Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for different flavor profiles.
- Garnish Generously – A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds color but also elevates the dish’s aroma and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Complement your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Garlic Bread – The perfect accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil provide color and nutrients to balance your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that pairs well without overwhelming flavors.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness to your meal.
- Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini can be lightly sautéed as an alternative to traditional pasta.
- Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses invites variety to your table setting.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and contrast against creamy pasta.
These side dishes will perfectly complement your main course while keeping your meal vibrant and satisfying!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping the Pasta Water – Not reserving pasta water can lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Always save some for adjusting the consistency.
- Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, and remove it from the skillet promptly.
- Not Measuring Ingredients – Estimating ingredients can result in an unbalanced flavor. Use exact measurements for best results, especially with garlic and seasoning.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese – Substituting fresh Parmesan with pre-grated cheese can affect the flavor and creaminess of the dish. Always choose freshly grated cheese for the best taste.
- Ignoring Fresh Herbs – Skipping fresh parsley as a garnish can make your dish look dull. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and brightness that enhances presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Freeze in a suitable container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Ensure all air is removed from bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Warm in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium-low in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan that might help you out.
How can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
You can add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences as well.
Can I use whole wheat rigatoni instead?
Yes! Whole wheat rigatoni works well as a healthier alternative while still providing great texture and flavor in this dish.
Is Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken makes it appealing to children. You can adjust spice levels based on their preference.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Serve it alongside a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Roasted vegetables also make a great addition!
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your tastes or dietary needs. Try making this delightful dish for dinner tonight—your family will love it!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, a dish that combines succulent chicken, rich garlic butter, and creamy Parmesan cheese for a delightful meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, bringing together simple ingredients to create a satisfying and delicious experience.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Sear chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and simmer briefly.
- Stir in heavy cream; simmer until slightly thickened. Mix in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Combine cooked chicken and rigatoni with sauce; cook for an additional minute.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
