Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni pasta; 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into chunks; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups heavy cream; 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp cracked black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

When it comes to quick and satisfying dinners, few dishes can compete with a creamy pasta recipe like Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this dish has all the elements that make it a family favorite. Picture perfectly cooked rigatoni covered in silky Alfredo sauce, enriched with succulent chicken and a delicious garlic butter blend. This recipe not only caters to your cravings for comfort food but also offers a meal that can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

One of the standout features of this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce is its ability to be both indulgent and straightforward. The luxurious creaminess of the Alfredo sauce, combined with the savory taste of garlic and butter, creates a harmonious blend that is irresistible. Plus, the juiciness of the chicken adds depth to the dish, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this meal checks all the boxes. It’s delicious, requires simple ingredients, and can be ready in under 40 minutes. So if you’re searching for an easy pasta recipe or need a new addition to your dinner rotation, you’ve found it! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food with its rich and creamy sauce.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Pasta Perfection: Rigatoni captures the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that caters to both kids and adults alike.
Endless Possibilities: Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for added variety.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring you have all your ingredients on hand, measuring them out to make the cooking process more effortless. You’ll need a large pot for cooking the pasta and a spacious skillet for searing the chicken and making the sauce.

A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the sauce, while a whisk will help smooth out any lumps when integrating the Parmesan cheese. Additionally, a colander will be indispensable for draining the cooked rigatoni. Once you have your workspace organized with these tools, you’ll find that the cooking process flows smoothly.

Ingredients

1 lb rigatoni pasta
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into chunks
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups heavy cream
1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp cracked black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

To start off, boil a large pot of salted water until it reaches a rolling boil. Carefully add the rigatoni pasta, cooking it until it reaches al dente perfection. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes; just be sure to check the package instructions for specifics. Once cooked, reserve a cup of the pasta water to adjust your sauce later. Drain the rigatoni and set it aside for now.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Next, while your pasta is cooking, season the chicken chunks with salt and cracked black pepper to enhance their flavor. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and let it sear until it transforms into a golden brown color and is cooked through—generally around 6–8 minutes. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat on your skillet to medium and add the rest of the butter along with the minced garlic. As the garlic sizzles, sauté it for 1–2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and softens. Be careful not to let it burn, as this can make the dish bitter.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce

Once the garlic is ready, pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently for about 3–4 minutes. As the cream heats, begin to whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and turns smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens—the cream and cheese meld together to create a luxurious sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Rigatoni with the Sauce

Bring the cooked rigatoni back into the fold by adding it to the Alfredo sauce. Use tongs or a spatula to toss the pasta with the sauce, ensuring it’s fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish with Chicken

Reintroduce your seared chicken into the skillet, giving everything a good mix. Allow it to simmer together for another 2 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully. Now, your delicious Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce is almost ready!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

To finish, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This adds not only a pop of color but also freshness that beautifully complements the richness of the sauce. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy every mouthful!

Variations

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled salmon for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Spices: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or Italian herbs for extra flavor.

Cooking Notes

Always reserve some pasta water; it’s key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
To save time, consider using rotisserie chicken as a quick alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
A glass of white wine complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce beautifully.

Tips

For an extra creamy sauce, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving; it helps the sauce thicken.
Be mindful not to overcook the pasta; it should be firm to the bite for the best texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 700 per serving
Protein: 45g
Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, add a little cream or milk to thin it out.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk with flour for thickness.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! For a cheesier sauce, feel free to add more Parmesan or even a blend of your favorite cheeses.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its ease of preparation and delightful flavors, it’s a recipe that promises to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish will certainly impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Don’t hesitate to play around with variations as well—this recipe is flexible and allows for creativity in the kitchen. Make sure to share your results and experiences with this delightful dish—your feedback is always welcomed!