Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an irresistible dish that brings together tender chicken and hearty pasta in a creamy garlic sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. The rich flavors and quick preparation make it a go-to recipe that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal time and effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken and pasta.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting meal, ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s great for those last-minute meal plans.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Pasta strainer
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the rigatoni evenly, ensuring it’s cooked perfectly al dente.
- Skillet: Used to sear the chicken and create the flavorful garlic butter sauce all in one pan.
- Measuring cups: Help ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, gather the following 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
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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 about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes while 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 Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If your sauce is too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
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 another 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 for an unforgettable meal!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is about making the meal feel special and enjoyable. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – A classic choice with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing touch.
Add a Side of Bread
- Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the rich sauce beautifully.
- Focaccia – Soft Italian bread seasoned with herbs adds a nice texture contrast to the pasta.
Enhance with Wine
- Chardonnay – A lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Pinot Noir – This lighter red wine balances the richness of the dish without overpowering it.
Garnish for Presentation
- Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness to each bite.
- Extra Parmesan – Grating fresh Parmesan on top enhances flavor and makes the dish look appealing.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken – Cook just until golden brown to keep it tender and juicy.
- Reserve Pasta Water – This starchy water helps adjust sauce consistency for better coating on the pasta.
- Simmer for Flavor – Allowing the garlic butter sauce to simmer enhances the depth of flavors in the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning Last – Taste before final seasoning adjustments to avoid over-salting.
- Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Butter Chicken can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are several options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch while being healthy.
- Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, roast until tender, and enjoy their earthy flavor.
- Mixed Vegetables Stir-Fry – Quick stir-fried seasonal vegetables bring freshness and texture to your plate.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich mashed potatoes complement the pasta’s creaminess perfectly.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a nutritious balance alongside your main dish.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic provides a flavorful appetizer option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
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Skipping Ingredient Prep – Not preparing your ingredients before cooking can lead to rushed steps. Always chop, measure, and organize everything beforehand for a smoother cooking process.
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Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking rigatoni longer than needed can ruin its texture. Make sure to follow the package instructions and taste for doneness to ensure it’s al dente.
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Not Seasoning the Chicken – Failing to properly season the chicken can make it bland. Use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning generously to enhance flavor.
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Ignoring Sauce Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the pasta well. Always reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
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Forgetting Garnishes – Skipping fresh parsley or extra Parmesan can dull the dish’s presentation. Don’t forget these final touches—they add both flavor and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot all over.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni is great for this recipe, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli based on your preference.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or incorporate diced jalapeños into the garlic butter sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook everything in advance and reheat it just before serving for convenience.
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an incredibly versatile dish that combines comforting flavors in a quick recipe. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make it even heartier!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken and hearty rigatoni pasta in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings. The savory blend of garlic butter and Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy the whole family. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience that feels special yet is easy to whip up.
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)
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- Melt butter in the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds, then add chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet, add rigatoni, and toss until fully coated in the sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 635mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 121mg
