Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine biting into tender chicken smothered in a velvety garlic butter sauce, with each forkful of rigatoni soaking up every drop of that creamy goodness. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, luring everyone in as they wonder what culinary magic is afoot.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is the best way to cook chicken for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rigatoni?
- How can I make this dish dairy-free?
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. Picture family gatherings around the table, laughter echoing as everyone digs into this comforting delight. From cozy weeknight dinners to impressive dinner parties, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni is the star of any occasion, promising an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The combination of creamy sauce and savory chicken makes this dish a flavor explosion.
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The vibrant colors and textures are sure to impress at your next gathering.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; they’re juicy and cook evenly.
Fresh Garlic: Go for firm cloves to ensure the best flavor infusion into your sauce.
Unsalted Butter: The key to that luxurious creamy texture; don’t skip it!
Heavy Cream: This rich ingredient gives the sauce its silky finish and makes it utterly indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances the flavor profile significantly; pre-grated just won’t cut it here.
Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully—perfect for hearty bites.
For the Seasoning:
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in your dish.
Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme adds depth to the sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the garlic finely so it can infuse quickly into the butter.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook for about six minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Using the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean), add another tablespoon of butter along with your finely chopped garlic. Sauté until fragrant—this should take about one minute.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually until melted smooth. Toss in dried Italian herbs for added flavor.
Step 5: Cook Rigatoni
While preparing your sauce, boil water in a separate pot with some salt and cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add cooked rigatoni directly into the skillet with your creamy sauce along with sliced chicken. Stir gently until everything is coated evenly.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for that perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every spoonful of this indulgent dish that’s bound to impress!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, which locks in those juicy flavors. While the chicken is resting, cook the rigatoni to al dente perfection and prepare your creamy garlic butter sauce simultaneously. This sequence ensures everything is hot and fresh when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or beef if that’s what you have. Add some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to your sauce for an extra burst of flavor and color. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also turn up the heat!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out in the microwave or skillet.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender.
- Use fresh garlic for a bolder flavor that elevates your sauce.
- And don’t skip on tasting; adjusting seasoning mid-cook makes all the difference!
Cooking this dish always reminds me of that one dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was—definitely a moment I won’t forget!
FAQs:
What is the best way to cook chicken for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce?
To achieve tender and juicy chicken for your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Sear it in a hot skillet with butter until golden brown on both sides. Cook it through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This method locks in moisture and flavor, making your dish even more delicious.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rigatoni?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute rigatoni with other pasta types like penne, farfalle, or fusilli. Each pasta shape holds sauces differently, so choose one that will complement the creamy garlic sauce well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta you select to ensure a perfect finish.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free version of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, replace butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without dairy. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream blend. These adjustments will maintain creaminess while making the dish suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta separately, then combine them just before serving. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
In conclusion, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. By using alternatives like chicken and plant-based ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your chosen pasta shape and consider preparing it ahead for convenience. Enjoy this creamy dish with family or friends for an unforgettable dining experience!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken and rigatoni pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety garlic butter sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering a delightful flavor that will leave everyone at the table asking for more. Experience the magic of this creamy indulgence that not only warms the belly but also creates lasting memories with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by mincing the garlic and seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Cook the chicken for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously, then gradually add Parmesan cheese until melted smooth. Toss in dried Italian herbs.
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the creamy sauce and sliced chicken, ensuring everything is evenly coated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
