Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that elevates any meal. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty rigatoni makes this recipe a standout. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: The luscious Parmesan sauce envelops the chicken and pasta, delivering a rich flavor that will satisfy your cravings.
- Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
- Versatile Meal: Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, making it ideal for cozy nights at home.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap the protein to suit your taste!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything handy will ensure a smooth preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and creating the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of rigatoni so it pairs perfectly with the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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 it well and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter 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, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet:
Stir continuously until you achieve a smooth texture.
Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet:
Add cooked rigatoni pasta.
Toss everything together ensuring each piece is well-coated with that creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is best enjoyed warm and fresh. The rich flavors and creamy texture make it a delightful meal for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens can add a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
- Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad complements the creamy sauce perfectly with its crisp romaine and tangy dressing.
Add a Crunchy Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is great for scooping up the extra sauce.
- Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks can be a satisfying addition to your meal.
Top with Extra Garnish
- Chopped Basil: Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
- Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of more Parmesan cheese enhances the cheesy goodness.
Serve with Wine
- White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors, enhancing the overall experience.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water can cleanse the palate between bites.
How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking rigatoni until al dente will keep it firm and prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid separating the creamy sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
To make your meal even more satisfying, consider serving it alongside these delicious side dishes. They complement the creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni perfectly.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies provides a hearty side that is full of flavor.
- Caprese Salad: This classic Italian salad offers fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil that enhance the overall meal experience.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer an extra layer of comfort food goodness.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative that pairs well with rich sauces.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
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Not seasoning the chicken properly: Ensure you season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking. This enhances the flavor of the dish significantly.
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Overcooking the pasta: Follow the package instructions carefully when cooking rigatoni. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin the texture of your dish.
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Using low-quality cheese: Opt for fresh, grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties. Fresh cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor.
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Neglecting to sauté garlic correctly: Sauté garlic until just fragrant, about one minute. Cooking it too long can lead to bitterness and spoil the sauce’s taste.
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Skipping the garnish: Don’t forget to add fresh parsley at the end. It adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the entire dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best if used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth 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 another type of pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni works great, you can substitute with penne or fusilli for a similar effect.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to combining the pasta and sauce. Store separately and combine before serving.
What can I serve with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and maintains flavor over several days in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in Parmesan sauce is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or impressing guests, this comforting dish is sure to satisfy everyone at your table!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort dish that combines rich flavors and cozy textures. This delightful meal features tender chicken pieces simmered in a luscious Parmesan sauce, enveloping hearty rigatoni for a satisfying dining experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also impressive enough to serve guests. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a dish that will leave everyone craving more.
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
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; cook until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth; bring to simmer and reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth; let it thicken.
- Combine cooked chicken and rigatoni with the sauce; toss until well-coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
