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.
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)
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!
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.
