Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dinner: garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and parmesan! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s rich, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying, yet it comes together in just about 30 minutes. I love how the chicken gets that gorgeous golden brown color, and when you toss the rigatoni in that garlic butter sauce, it’s just heavenly! The parmesan adds a lovely salty kick that takes it over the top. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to impress guests. Who doesn’t love a dish that’s a crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- 250g rigatoni
- 50g grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Alright, let’s dive into making this mouthwatering garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and parmesan! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the steps are super straightforward. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Cooking the Rigatoni
First things first, let’s get that rigatoni cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the 250g of rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. You want it to be al dente—firm but tender. And don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. When it’s done, reserve a cup of the pasta water (trust me on this!) and drain the rest. Set it aside while we work on the chicken.
Preparing the Chicken
Now, let’s focus on the chicken! Season those two chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides—don’t be shy! In a large pan, melt the 4 tablespoons of garlic butter over medium heat. When it’s sizzling and fragrant, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through (you can check with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F or 74°C). Once they’re done, remove them from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Combining Ingredients
Now for the magic! In the same pan with the leftover garlic butter, add the cooked rigatoni and a splash of that reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that delicious garlic butter. Slice the chicken and arrange it on top of the rigatoni. Finish it off with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan and a bit of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Wow, just look at that! Serve it up warm, and get ready for some happy faces around the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously rich and buttery flavor that’s truly comforting.
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Perfectly tender chicken paired with al dente rigatoni for a delightful texture.
- Minimal ingredients mean maximum flavor without the fuss.
- Customizable—add red pepper flakes for a kick or throw in some veggies for extra nutrition.
- Impressive enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as tasty the next day.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s ensure your garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and parmesan turns out absolutely perfect every single time! Here are some of my tried-and-true tips that will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish to new heights.
- Don’t rush the chicken: It’s so tempting to turn up the heat to cook the chicken faster, but trust me, medium heat is key here. This way, you get that beautiful golden brown crust without burning it. Patience pays off!
- Save that pasta water: I can’t stress this enough! That starchy water is liquid gold. Adding a splash of it when tossing the rigatoni with the garlic butter helps create a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Season generously: Seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper isn’t just a suggestion—it’s essential! Don’t be afraid to be a little generous; you want that flavor to really shine through.
- Rest your chicken: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing lets the juices redistribute, so you’ll end up with tender, juicy pieces instead of dry ones. Just walk away for a bit—it’s worth it!
- Garnish wisely: Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a burst of fresh flavor that brightens up the dish. Plus, it makes your plate look so pretty!
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to customize! Whether it’s adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or throwing in seasonal veggies, make this dish your own!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and parmesan! Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but here’s a general breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
This dish is packed with protein thanks to the chicken, and the rigatoni gives you a satisfying carbohydrate boost to keep you fueled. Plus, that garlic butter? Pure bliss! Enjoy your delicious meal while being mindful of these estimates. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully, you can swap it out for any pasta you love—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would be fantastic. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary depending on the pasta shape!
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
Great question! You can easily toss in some fresh veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini while cooking the chicken. They’ll add a pop of color and extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor!
How do I store leftovers?
If you’ve got any delicious leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can definitely prep the chicken and cook the rigatoni ahead of time! Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to eat. When it’s time to serve, toss it all together in that lovely garlic butter, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to impress!
What’s the best way to reheat garlic butter chicken with rigatoni?
To keep the flavors intact, I recommend reheating it in a pan over medium heat. You can add a splash of water or extra garlic butter to help it warm evenly and avoid drying out. Stir it gently until heated through. Yum!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers of garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and parmesan! If you happen to have any left after dinner (though I wouldn’t blame you if you devoured it all!), here’s how to store it properly so it stays tasty.
First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed well, or you might end up with a sad, dried-out version of your masterpiece! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it with the date so you can keep track!
Now, when it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating it on the stovetop for the best flavor. Just add a splash of water or a little extra garlic butter to the pan to keep it moist. Heat it over medium until it’s warmed through, stirring gently to combine everything again. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too—just make sure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to avoid splatters. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot.
Either way, you’ll be back to garlic butter bliss in no time! Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this amazing garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and parmesan, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal with some delightful sides or salads! Trust me, adding a little something extra can take your dinner to the next level, and there are so many tasty options to choose from!
First up, a simple green salad pairs perfectly with this dish. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the garlic butter, making it a refreshing complement!
If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, consider serving garlic bread on the side. It’s a classic combo! Just spread some butter and minced garlic on slices of crusty bread, pop them in the oven until golden, and you’ll have a delicious vessel for all that extra garlic butter sauce.
Another great option is roasted vegetables. Think colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with herbs. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, and they add a lovely pop of color and nutrition to your plate.
And for those who love a little zest, a Caprese salad is a fantastic choice! Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, then drizzle with balsamic glaze. The creamy cheese and fresh herbs will harmonize beautifully with the flavors of your main dish.
So, there you have it! With these sides and salads, you’re all set for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and the company around your table!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious garlic butter chicken dish served with rigatoni and topped with parmesan.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- 250g rigatoni
- 50g grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions.
- In a pan, melt garlic butter over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook chicken in the pan until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and let it rest before slicing.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the pan, tossing it in the garlic butter.
- Serve rigatoni topped with sliced chicken and grated parmesan.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes.
- Use whole wheat rigatoni for a healthier option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: garlic butter chicken, rigatoni, parmesan
