Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love! Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even potlucks, this dish shines with its creamy texture and rich flavors. The combination of tender chicken, hearty rigatoni pasta, and a luscious Parmesan sauce makes it both indulgent and satisfying. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a beautiful touch, making this meal not just delicious but also visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The garlic butter and Parmesan sauce create a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Meal: Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish fits any occasion perfectly.
- Comforting Ingredients: Enjoy the warm embrace of creamy sauce paired with hearty pasta and juicy chicken.
- Leftover Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet is crucial for cooking the chicken and combining all ingredients smoothly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Using a pot specifically for pasta ensures even cooking without crowding.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping chicken and garlic quick and safe.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 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 well and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces.
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 about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth while stirring to combine.
Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
Add cooked rigatoni pasta.
Toss everything together until well coated in creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot!
Enjoy your homemade creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce! This delightful dish is sure to impress at any meal!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is all about enhancing the rich flavors of this comforting dish. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that can elevate your dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness.
- Basil: Chopped basil can offer an aromatic touch that complements the garlic flavor.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of baguette to add a crunchy texture to your meal.
Accompany with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing provides a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction enhance the Italian flavors.
Include a Side of Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness, making it a delightful side.
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 more delightful, consider these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure your chicken is tender by cooking until just done; avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste your sauce as you cook, adding salt or pepper as needed for perfect seasoning.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can introduce extra nutrients and flavor depth to your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Complementing your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad that balances the richness of the chicken and pasta.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans add crunch and color.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these vegetables bring great flavor.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes paired with mozzarella provide a refreshing contrast.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can enhance comfort food vibes while complementing the rich sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the outcome of their creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce. Avoid these common pitfalls for a dish that impresses!
- Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season the chicken properly, leading to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for the best taste.
- Not cooking pasta correctly: Overcooking or undercooking rigatoni can ruin the texture. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente for a perfect bite.
- Rushing the sauce: Some may be tempted to skip simmering time. Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop rich flavors, so take your time!
- Using low-quality cheese: Not all Parmesan is created equal. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture and better flavor.
- Ignoring garnish: Forgetting to add fresh parsley can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between to ensure even warming.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to rehydrate the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce that might help you as you prepare this delightful dish.
Can I use different pasta varieties for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
Yes! While rigatoni works great, feel free to substitute with other pasta types like penne or fettuccine based on your preference.
How can I customize my Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni is perfect for meal prep; just store it properly as mentioned above.
What should I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
A light salad or garlic bread complements this rich dish well, providing balance without overpowering the main flavors.
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Don’t hesitate to give this dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion! This indulgent dish combines tender chicken and hearty rigatoni pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. With a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, it’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Ideal for family dinners or cozy date nights, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the warm embrace of this flavorful meal that’s ready to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- salt
- black pepper
- fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter; add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a smooth sauce; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Return chicken to skillet along with rigatoni; toss to coat everything in the sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
