Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. This rich and indulgent dish combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta, all smothered in a luscious garlic butter sauce with Parmesan. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a creamy, savory pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Flavorful – The rich garlic butter sauce with Parmesan is bursting with flavor, making each bite irresistible.
• One-Pan Meal – Simple to make with minimal cleanup, everything is cooked in one pan.
• Juicy Chicken – The chicken is perfectly seasoned and seared, adding a hearty protein to the dish.
• Comfort Food at its Best – A delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for dinner with family or guests.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the Chicken and Pasta:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz rigatoni pasta (or your choice of pasta)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking chicken)

• For the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta – Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later.

2. Cook the Chicken – While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into thin strips.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce – In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Add Parmesan Cheese – Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine Everything – Add the cooked rigatoni pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are coated in the creamy sauce.

6. Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option – Skip the chicken and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Different Protein – Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different take on the dish.
• Extra Cheese – Add extra cheese, such as mozzarella, for an even cheesier dish.
• Low-Carb Option – Substitute the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little more cream or pasta water to loosen up the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store them separately. Then, make the sauce and combine everything when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute rigatoni for penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, make sure the heat is medium-low when adding the cream and cheese. Stir constantly to combine, and avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cream.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms can give the dish added texture and flavor. Simply sauté the vegetables in the skillet before making the sauce.

How do I make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to lighten up the sauce. You can also use grilled chicken for a leaner option.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe without the chicken?

Yes, for a vegetarian option, you can skip the chicken and just enjoy the creamy pasta and sauce.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked chicken and pasta, this recipe is simple, quick, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop (Skillet)
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce. This one-pan meal is easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this indulgent dish will satisfy your cravings for a savory pasta meal.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz rigatoni pasta (or your choice of pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking chicken)

For the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later.
• Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
• Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
• Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
• Combine Everything: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are coated in the creamy sauce.
• Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Notes

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Different Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different take on the dish.
• Extra Cheese: Add extra cheese, such as mozzarella, for an even cheesier dish.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb version.