Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce*! It’s like a cozy hug on a plate, and I can’t get enough of it. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, velvety sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni that captures every bit of that glorious flavor. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you just want to impress someone special! Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked on that creamy texture and those mouthwatering garlic notes. Get ready to savor every forkful of this delightful Italian dish!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building that rich, delicious flavor we all crave!
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless for easy cooking)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for that luscious richness)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (the star flavor that makes your kitchen smell divine)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that creamy texture you’ll love)
- 1 cup packed grated parmesan cheese (the key to a cheesy, savory sauce)
- 8 ounces rigatoni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this, it brings everything together!)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (for a pop of color and freshness)
How to Prepare Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
First things first, let’s get that rigatoni cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add in the rigatoni. Follow the package instructions for cooking time—usually about 10-12 minutes will do the trick for that perfect al dente bite. Once it’s cooked to your liking, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water; it can come in handy later to loosen the sauce if needed!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Cook Chicken
Now, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. It should start bubbling a bit, and trust me, the smell will be amazing! Once the butter is melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn—nobody likes bitter garlic! Next, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You want that juicy goodness, so check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it up into beautiful pieces.
Step 3: Create the Parmesan Sauce
With the chicken resting, it’s time to turn that skillet into a sauce powerhouse! Pour in the heavy cream and give it a good stir, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Then, sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy—oh, that’s what we’re here for! If it looks a little thick, just splash in some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. It should be rich and velvety, ready to embrace that rigatoni!
Step 4: Combine Rigatoni and Serve
Now for the grand finale! Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet and gently toss it with the parmesan sauce until every piece is coated. You’ll want to make sure that every noodle is drenched in that creamy goodness. To serve, plate the rigatoni and top it with those sliced chicken pieces. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. And there you have it—your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can have this delicious meal on the table in about 40 minutes!
- Rich flavors: The combination of garlic, butter, and parmesan creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Creamy texture: That silky sauce hugs every piece of rigatoni, making each bite utterly satisfying.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta for a delightful dish everyone can enjoy.
- Versatile: You can easily add your favorite veggies or spices to customize it to your liking!
- Kid-friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about how to make your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce absolutely perfect! I’ve got a few pro tips that can really elevate your dish and make it even more delicious.
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Salt and pepper are your best friends here! Season the chicken well before cooking to enhance its flavor. You can even add a pinch of Italian herbs for an extra flavor boost.
- Watch the garlic: Be attentive when sautéing the garlic. It can go from perfectly fragrant to burnt in a matter of seconds, and trust me, burnt garlic is a major flavor killer!
- Check your chicken: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). It’ll keep it juicy and tender—no one wants dry chicken in this creamy dish!
- Adjust the creaminess: If you find the sauce too thick, just stir in that reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. It’s a game changer!
- Let the sauce simmer: After adding the cream and cheese, let the sauce simmer for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite more flavorful.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich sauce. Don’t be shy with it!
- Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to throw in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!
With these tips, I’m sure your dish will turn out amazing! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up a bit with your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce, I’ve got some delicious variations for you to try! Each option brings a unique twist to this already irresistible dish, and I can’t wait for you to experiment!
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes when you’re cooking the chicken. They’ll add a lovely burst of flavor and color while sneaking in some extra nutrition!
- Different Pasta: Switch things up by using a different pasta shape! Penne, farfalle, or even gluten-free options like chickpea pasta are fantastic alternatives that will hold onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs! Fresh basil or thyme can be added to the sauce for an aromatic lift. Just toss them in right when you add the cream to let those flavors meld.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic. It’ll give the dish a delightful kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Cheese Variety: Change up the cheese! Try using a mix of parmesan and mozzarella for extra cheesiness, or even swap in some goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Protein Alternatives: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp or even sautéed tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
These variations are not just fun to try, but they also allow you to personalize the dish to fit your tastes and what you have on hand. So don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen! I promise, you can’t go wrong with this creamy goodness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s chat about how to store your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce so you can enjoy those delicious leftovers later! Proper storage is key to keeping that flavor intact and ensuring every bite is just as good as the first.
To store your leftovers, simply let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. It’s best to keep the chicken and rigatoni together in the same container, but if you prefer to keep them separate, that works too!
Make sure to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking to keep everything safe. When stored properly, your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using a skillet over medium-low heat for the best results. This way, you can gently warm it up without drying it out. Add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens up in the fridge—nothing worse than a clumpy sauce, right? Stir occasionally until everything is heated through and looks invitingly creamy again.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave! Just transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in short bursts of about 30 seconds, stirring in between until it’s hot and ready to enjoy. Just be careful not to overcook it, as microwaves can be sneaky that way!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor the creamy deliciousness of this dish even after the first serving. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional goodness packed into each serving of this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce. This is all about balance, so it’s good to know what you’re getting in your delicious dish!
Here’s the estimated nutritional data per serving, keeping in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
Remember, these numbers are just estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying when you dig into this comforting meal. It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a hearty dinner. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your nutritional needs!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni holds onto that creamy garlic butter sauce beautifully, you can swap it for other pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. The key is to use something that can grab onto that parmesan sauce, so pick your favorite!
How can I make this dish healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, there are a few easy swaps you can make. First, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a bit more flavor and moisture. You can also use half-and-half or a lighter cream in place of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese while still getting that delightful parmesan flavor. Adding more veggies, like spinach or zucchini, is another great way to boost the nutrition without sacrificing taste!
What can I serve with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, I recommend a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Garlic bread is also a fantastic option—who doesn’t love extra carbs? For a more substantial side, roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus can complement the creamy textures beautifully. Whatever you choose, it’s all about enjoying that incredible flavor combination!
For more information on the health benefits of garlic, you can check out this Healthline article. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional value of parmesan cheese, visit this NCBI study.
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy garlic butter chicken served with rigatoni in a rich parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 8 ounces rigatoni
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from skillet and slice.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir.
- Add parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked rigatoni and stir to combine.
- Serve rigatoni with sliced chicken on top. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Use more or less garlic based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: creamy garlic butter chicken, rigatoni, parmesan sauce, italian chicken recipe
