Oh my goodness, if you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, you’re in for a real treat! This creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni easy homemade recipe is my go-to for a cozy dinner at home. It’s rich, comforting, and comes together in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious on the table. I remember the first time I made this; the smell of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen had everyone flocking to see what was cooking! Trust me, the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente rigatoni will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish!
Ingredients List
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups chicken breast, diced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it—those starchy bits help the sauce stick!
- Now, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. I love using a good quality butter for that rich flavor. Once it’s melted and bubbly, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly!
- Next, add the diced chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Make sure to season it with a little salt and pepper as it cooks to enhance the flavor.
- Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir it all together and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, add the grated parmesan cheese and mix until it melts into that luscious, creamy sauce.
- Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and gently toss everything until the pasta is well coated in that dreamy sauce. If it feels a bit thick, don’t worry—just splash in a bit of pasta water to loosen it up.
- Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving. And there you have it! Your creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni is ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
- The creamy garlic butter sauce is rich and indulgent, making every bite feel like a treat.
- This dish comes together in just 30 minutes—quick enough for even the busiest of days!
- It’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you—yay!
- The combination of tender chicken and al dente rigatoni is simply irresistible!
- You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or protein, tailoring it to your taste.
- This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully, making it a great meal prep option!
Tips for Success
Now, let me share some of my favorite tips to make your creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni truly shine! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference.
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken and real butter. It really elevates the flavor of the dish. And don’t skimp on the parmesan—go for freshly grated if you can!
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Salt your pasta water generously! This is your chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself, making the entire dish more delicious.
- Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it while it’s sautéing. You want it golden and fragrant, not brown and bitter!
- Pasta Water Magic: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the rigatoni. If your sauce gets too thick, just add a splash of that starchy water to loosen it up without losing flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley right before serving for that beautiful pop of color and freshness. You could even mix in some basil or chives for an extra flavor boost!
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. And don’t forget a glass of white wine—it’s the perfect companion!
- Make It Ahead: You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time and just toss in the rigatoni when you’re ready to eat. It’s perfect for busy nights!
Following these tips will have you dishing out a plate of creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni that’s not only delicious but also makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
One of the best things about this creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni easy homemade recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to cater to your taste buds or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Swap the Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, feel free to use shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Both options will soak up that delicious sauce beautifully!
- Add Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini for a pop of color and nutrition. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing flavor!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a touch of rosemary for a unique flavor profile. Just be careful not to overpower the garlic—balance is key!
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture. It’ll give your dish a nice zesty finish that’s oh-so-satisfying!
- Cheese Galore: Switch out parmesan for other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor experience. You could even mix in some cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture!
- Different Pasta Shapes: Don’t feel limited to rigatoni! Use penne, farfalle, or even fettuccine—whatever pasta you have on hand will work just fine.
- Lemon Zest: For a refreshing twist, add some lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish. It really elevates the creamy flavors!
These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to customize your creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni to your heart’s content. Get creative and enjoy the journey of making this dish your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni, and now you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any)! Here’s how to store and reheat it, so you can enjoy that creamy goodness again.
First things first, let the rigatoni cool down to room temperature before storing it. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly to keep all that flavor locked in! This dish will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date, so you know when to use it!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just add the rigatoni to a skillet over medium-low heat. If it seems a bit dry, don’t panic! Splash in a little bit of milk or chicken broth to help loosen it up and bring back that creamy texture. Stir it gently until heated through, and voilà, it’s like you just made it fresh!
If you prefer the microwave, that works too! Place the rigatoni in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat it in short bursts, about 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.
Enjoy those leftovers, and don’t forget to savor every last bite! It’s just as comforting the second time around.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for one serving of this creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni. Keep in mind that these figures are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packs a good amount of protein and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying meal. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite knowing that it’s just a bit indulgent!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my best answers:
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before dicing and cooking. It’s a great time-saver if you’re in a pinch!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute it with half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and butter. Just keep in mind that it might not be as rich, but it’ll still be tasty!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or even chickpeas for added protein. Just make sure you’re using vegetable broth if you’re adding liquid.
How can I add more flavor?
Feel free to throw in some herbs like basil or thyme. A splash of white wine while sautéing the garlic can also add a lovely depth of flavor! Learn more about wine pairings.
What’s the best way to serve this pasta?
I love serving it with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread for dipping into that creamy sauce. It’s a match made in heaven!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead, but I recommend cooking the pasta fresh right before serving. This way, it stays nice and al dente!
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back that creamy consistency. Stir gently until warmed through.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While rigatoni is fantastic, any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or fusilli, will work just fine. Go with what you love!
I hope this FAQ section helps you feel more confident in making your creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy cooking!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear how your creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni turns out! If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Did you add your own twist? I can’t wait to hear about it! And if you enjoyed it as much as I do, don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends on social media. Let’s spread the love for delicious homemade meals! Happy cooking, and I hope your kitchen smells as amazing as mine does when I whip this up!
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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni: Easy Recipe Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni recipe that is easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups chicken breast, diced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use grilled chicken for added flavor.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your preference.
- Serve immediately for best taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- 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: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni easy homemade recipe
