Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 3 tbsp butter; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional); ¼ cup reserved pasta water

If you’re in search of a flavorful dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni. Imagine tender pieces of chicken nestled in a rich, velvety parmesan sauce combined with the beloved texture of rigatoni pasta. This dish is your go-to when you fancy a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The creamy garlic butter sauce infuses the entire meal with a richness that feels decadent, yet it’s surprisingly simple and quick to pull together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner. Every forkful delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, ensuring this dish will soon become a household favorite.

This recipe stands out not just for its taste but also for its ease and efficiency. With staples like chicken, pasta, and a handful of kitchen-friendly ingredients, you won’t be scrambling for things you don’t already have. Plus, with just under 30 minutes from preparation to the table, you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying this delightful meal. Whether you’re hunting for new dinner ideas or simply wish to savor a classic comfort food that feels a little elevated, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni meets all your needs with grace and ease.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Flavorful Elegance: The combination of garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that perfectly coats the rigatoni and chicken.
Quick Meal Solution: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Ideal for those nights when you’re craving something cozy yet indulgent.
Simple Ingredients: Uses common kitchen staples, making it a convenient and practical choice.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the culinary experience of crafting your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, it’s important to prepare your kitchen space efficiently. Begin by clearing your workspace to ensure all ingredients and utensils are easily accessible. A large pot will be necessary for boiling the pasta, while a sizable skillet is crucial for the chicken and sauce. Having a sharp knife for mincing garlic, and a spatula for stirring, will enhance your cooking process significantly. Ensure all components, such as butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese, are prepped and measured in advance to make the cooking process smooth and uninterrupted. If you have a handheld grater, it can be incredibly useful for freshly grating your parmesan cheese, enhancing flavor.

Additionally, keeping a small bowl of cold water nearby helps when you need to stop the pasta cooking immediately upon reaching al dente. Consider also having a ladle ready for reserving pasta water, which can be pivotal in perfecting the sauce consistency. This preparatory phase ensures that the joyous process of cooking transforms into a seamless, hassle-free journey.

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 tbsp butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
¼ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook it until it reaches an al dente texture as per the package instructions. Once done, drain and remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, which will be used later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

As the pasta cooks, heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken with salt and pepper to elevate its natural flavors. Place the chicken in the hot butter and allow it to sear until it achieves a golden-brown color, ensuring the meat is cooked through, which takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining butter in the same skillet to incorporate all the flavors. Add the minced garlic, letting it sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and a light golden brown. Slowly incorporate the heavy cream into the mix, allowing it to simmer gently for about 3 to 4 minutes as it starts to thicken. Once the desired thickness is reached, fold in the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is perfectly smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the previously cooked chicken and drained rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the luscious sauce. If you find the sauce is too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your preference. Allow everything to simmer together on a low heat for another 2 to 3 minutes. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese before serving to add a fresh touch to your dish.

Variations

Protein: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp or even a vegetarian substitute like grilled tofu for a different take.
Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile by adding spinach, sundried tomatoes, or mushrooms into the sauce for additional flavors and textures.
Spices: Add a kick to the sauce by including red pepper flakes or swap the black pepper for white pepper for a more subtle heat.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the skillet is sufficiently hot when adding the chicken to achieve a proper sear, contributing to both texture and flavor.
Consistently taste and adjust the seasoning during cooking; cheeses like parmesan can vary in saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creamy richness of the pasta.
Add a rustic bread or garlic toast, perfect for dipping into the luscious sauce left in the bowl.

Tips

Always reserve pasta water; it’s a secret ingredient for adjusting the sauce to your preferred consistency without compromising flavor.
If you enjoy stronger flavors, consider using smoked chicken or adding a touch of smoked paprika.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s hearty shape is perfect for this dish, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.

What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?

No worries! Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be suitable substitutes if parmesan is unavailable or if you desire a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, you could substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese used, though this may alter the dish’s creamy texture.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken separately and reheat them with the sauce just before serving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that perfectly combines ease and richness in every bite. From the succulent chicken infused with garlic butter flavors to the comforting creaminess of the sauce, this dish promises an indulgence that can transform an ordinary evening into a culinary delight. Don’t hesitate to put your spin on it; whether by adding extra veggies or trying out new spices, the possibilities are endless.

We would love to hear about your cooking experience! Did you add a personal flair to the recipe? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. And if this dish has won you over, consider sharing it with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!