If you are craving a meal that feels like a warm, comforting hug, then this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe is the perfect dish to make. Bursting with garlicky richness, tender chicken, and luscious Parmesan-infused rigatoni, it’s one of those recipes that turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable dinner. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a casual weekend feast, this dish delivers flavor and satisfaction that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly delightful about this recipe is how straightforward and essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a vital role, from the buttery notes that coat every bite, to the sharpness of Parmesan that elevates the whole dish with creamy decadence.
- 2 large chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing juicy, tender protein with a beautiful golden sear.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: Perfect for holding onto the buttery garlic sauce in its hearty ridges.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps marry the flavors perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic: Freshly minced to infuse the dish with an irresistible aroma and bold taste.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that makes the sauce so creamy and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve a beautiful sear on the chicken with a subtle fruity note.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until it reaches al dente—perfectly tender but still holding its shape. Before draining, be sure to set aside 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid will be magic later in creating a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every noodle.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and cook until each side is a gorgeous golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. This step not only builds flavor but also ensures juicy, tender chicken in every bite.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Build the Sauce
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, melt the remaining butter and add your minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn as this will make the dish bitter. Next, toss the cooked rigatoni back into the skillet, adding some of the reserved pasta water to loosen things up. This creates a luscious, garlicky butter sauce that beautifully coats every piece of pasta.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Parmesan
Slice the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir them into the skillet with the rigatoni. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and gently toss everything together, allowing the cheese to melt into the warm sauce and bring it all together. The result is a creamy, savory dish that’s rich without being heavy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbal brightness. Serve immediately to enjoy the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe at its flavorful best.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds vibrancy and subtle freshness. If you want to elevate the dish further, a few red pepper flakes can bring a welcome hint of heat, or a squeeze of lemon adds brightness that contrasts beautifully with the richness.
Side Dishes
Since this recipe is already hearty and rich, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These lighter sides balance the richness and add a fresh, textural contrast to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls sprinkled with extra Parmesan and chopped herbs. Alternatively, present it family-style in the skillet it was cooked in to showcase rustic, inviting charm. Adding a fresh baguette on the side is perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier when reheated gently.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to separate the chicken from the pasta if possible to maintain texture. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This prevents it from drying out and helps regain that creamy consistency, preserving the wonderful taste of the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Rigatoni’s ridges are perfect for holding the sauce, but penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine would work well if that’s what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will be different but still delightful.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) or until the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink inside.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can cook the pasta and chicken separately ahead of time. Just finish combining and tossing everything together when you’re ready to serve for the freshest results.
What can I add to make the sauce creamier?
If you want an extra creamy sauce, a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half can be added just before mixing in the Parmesan. It’s an indulgent twist that’s worth trying!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the way simple ingredients come together in the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe to create a rich, comforting meal. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and share good food with good company. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a trusted staple in your kitchen!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a simple yet indulgent pasta dish perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then combined with rigatoni pasta tossed in a garlicky, buttery Parmesan sauce. The reserved pasta water helps create a creamy, luscious sauce that coats every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting recipe is sure to satisfy any pasta lover.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, for pasta water
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
- Prepare Chicken: Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper. Pat them dry to ensure good browning.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Create Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and stir to combine and create a creamy sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Slice or chop the seared chicken breasts and add them to the skillet with the pasta. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well coated and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
- Chicken can be substituted with thighs for a juicier option.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
