Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a rich and savory pasta dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a luscious garlic butter sauce. The chicken is seared until golden brown and then smothered in a garlicky butter sauce, with a touch of white wine or chicken broth for extra depth. The sauce is tossed with the rigatoni, allowing the pasta to absorb all the flavorful goodness, and then topped with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, indulgent finish.
I first made Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan when I was craving a comforting yet flavorful meal, and it quickly became a favorite. The garlic butter sauce is rich without being overwhelming, and the chicken stays juicy while absorbing all the flavors of the sauce. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make—it’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Whether paired with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty, creamy pasta!
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Weeknight meals
- Chicken lovers
- Comfort food enthusiasts
- Garlic and pasta fans
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan will become your go-to comfort food:
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The garlic butter sauce is silky smooth and full of flavor, complementing the chicken and pasta perfectly.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken breasts are juicy and tender, creating a hearty and satisfying base for the dish.
- Al Dente Pasta: Rigatoni is the ideal pasta choice, with grooves that hold onto the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and steps, this recipe comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfectly Balanced: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich and savory dish that’s not too heavy.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.
- Make-Ahead Option: The chicken and sauce can be prepared in advance for a quick meal later in the week.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is perfect for kids and adults alike, making it great for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: It’s the ultimate comfort food with the perfect balance of savory and creamy elements.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs for a personal touch.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 600-650 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 60g, Fat: 30g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Ingredient Highlights
- Garlic: Adds aromatic richness and depth to the sauce.
- Butter: Provides a creamy, rich texture that complements the chicken and pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the dish with sharp, nutty flavors that tie everything together.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth and savory flavor to the garlic butter sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package directions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add Chicken Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve:
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:
- As a Main Course: Perfectly filling as the main dish for a hearty dinner.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for extra flavor and a satisfying meal.
- For Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and serve for a family dinner.
- With Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for a nutritious addition.
- For Weeknight Dinners: Quick and easy for busy weeknights when you need something comforting.
- As Leftovers: This dish reheats well, so it’s great for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- For Special Occasions: Elevate your meal with this creamy, flavorful dish for a more festive meal.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken until just done to keep it tender and juicy.
- Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce a more vibrant, aromatic flavor.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the pasta for extra color and nutrition.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken and Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the garlic butter sauce for added texture and nutrients.
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon zest and juice for a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Spicy Chicken: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version of the dish.
- Mushroom Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms to the garlic butter sauce for an earthy flavor.
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts in a Parmesan crust before cooking for added crunch.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap out rigatoni for zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood version of the dish.
Special Equipment
- Large Skillet: To cook the chicken and prepare the garlic butter sauce.
- Pasta Pot: To cook the rigatoni pasta.
- Tongs: For easily tossing the pasta with the chicken and sauce.
- Grater: For freshly grating the Parmesan cheese.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through without being overdone.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe, offering extra flavor and tenderness. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
The chicken and sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. - Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work, though rigatoni holds the sauce particularly well. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. - How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or add more Parmesan cheese. - Can I make this dish without heavy cream?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the sauce. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese. - Can I add more garlic?
Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add more cloves to the sauce. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rigatoni in a creamy, garlic-infused butter sauce. The addition of Parmesan adds a delightful, savory finish that elevates the entire meal. The balance of savory garlic, smooth butter, and rich chicken makes this dish incredibly satisfying and perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is quick to make, ideal for a busy weeknight dinner, but fancy enough for a special weekend meal. The garlic butter sauce is the star, soaking into the pasta and coating the chicken in a deliciously creamy, garlicky embrace. You can add herbs like basil or thyme to personalize it, or toss in some veggies for an extra boost of flavor and color.
I can’t wait to see how your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your mouth-watering creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!