Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce offers a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy date nights. The combination of tender chicken, rich Parmesan sauce, and hearty rigatoni creates a comforting dish that will leave everyone wanting more. With its creamy texture and savory notes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in under 35 minutes.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic butter sauce infused with Parmesan elevates the taste, making it truly irresistible.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish suits any event.
- Crowd Pleaser: Everyone loves pasta! This recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Comfort Food: It encapsulates the essence of comfort food with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need to prepare this delicious meal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pasta pot
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking and easy sauce preparation.
- Pasta pot: Essential for boiling rigatoni evenly without sticking together.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for perfect results every time.
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
Seasoning
- 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
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 and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic.
Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer.
Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Create Creaminess
Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet followed by the cooked rigatoni pasta.
Toss everything to combine, coating both pasta and chicken in that delicious creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately!
Now you’re ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Serving this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is all about enhancing its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing complement the richness of the dish.
- Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing peppery bite.
Add Extra Protein
- Grilled Shrimp: Topping your pasta with grilled shrimp introduces a smoky flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Sautéed Spinach: Adding sautéed spinach not only boosts nutrition but also provides a lovely color contrast.
Garnish Creatively
- Chopped Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds an aromatic touch and brightens up the dish visually.
- Extra Parmesan Cheese: Serve additional grated Parmesan on the side for those who love extra cheesy goodness.
Use Unique Serving Dishes
- Individual Cast Iron Skillets: Presenting servings in small cast iron skillets makes for an appealing table setting.
- Large Family-Style Bowl: For a cozy family dinner, serve the pasta in a large bowl where everyone can help themselves.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To achieve the ultimate creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your cooking process.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese will significantly improve the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until golden brown to keep it tender and juicy.
- Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow your sauce to simmer long enough for flavors to meld; this enhances the overall taste.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish’s freshness, making it more vibrant.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve right after preparation to maintain its creamy texture.
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 side dishes can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring added nutrition and color to your plate while balancing out the richness of the main dish.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crisp, fresh flavor that works well alongside the heaviness of the pasta.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer or side.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese or breadcrumbs can be an excellent start to your meal.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a truly indulgent experience, creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort while pairing perfectly with savory sauces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring pasta cooking time: Cooking the rigatoni for too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow the package instructions for the best texture.
- Using low-quality chicken: Not all chicken is created equal. Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite.
- Overcooking garlic: Garlic burns quickly; if you cook it for too long, it can become bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant for the best flavor.
- Skimping on seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland pasta. Make sure to season both the chicken and sauce well with salt and pepper.
- Not letting the sauce simmer: A good sauce needs time to develop its flavors. Allow your creamy sauce to simmer so it thickens beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- The creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- You can freeze this dish in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- It will keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni works great, you can substitute with penne or farfalle based on your preference.
How do I make this dish healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using less cream or substituting half-and-half. You could also add more vegetables like spinach or peas.
What can I serve with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni?
This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with cooked pasta just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. This comforting dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, a perfect dish for family dinners or intimate date nights. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken with a velvety garlic butter sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese and hearty rigatoni pasta. Ready in under 35 minutes, it’s not just quick but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to comfort food that will surely impress your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something special to celebrate, this dish is versatile and delicious.
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, and pepper to taste
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 seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; simmer for another 2-3 minutes until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet along with cooked rigatoni; toss to coat in the sauce.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
