Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; salt, to taste; black pepper, to taste; fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. This recipe balances tender, juicy chicken with silky, cheesy sauce, all wrapped around perfectly al dente rigatoni. The rich garlic butter infusion elevates every bite, creating a comfort meal that’s anything but ordinary. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends, this dish brings everyone together with its luscious flavors and effortless charm.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible creamy consistency that defines this dish.

12 oz rigatoni pasta: Its ridged surface is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and keeps the chicken juicy during cooking.
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Provides lean protein and soaks up all the garlic butter goodness.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that unmistakable aromatic warmth.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously rich base of the Parmesan sauce.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, salty finish that enriches every bite.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Delivers buttery depth and helps mellow the garlic.
Salt, to taste: Essential for balancing and highlighting all the flavors.
Black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle kick and complexity.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Brightens the plate visually and adds freshness.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

The foundation begins with rigatoni cooked al dente in salted boiling water. This ensures each bite is firm but tender, perfect for catching that creamy sauce. Once drained, set it aside warm, ready for the magic.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cooking them until golden brown and cooked through locks in juiciness. This step brings a beautiful texture contrast and hearty flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and gently cook minced garlic just until fragrant. This quick step infuses the butter with garlic’s aromatic punch without bitterness, laying the groundwork for the rich sauce.

Step 4: Create the Parmesan Sauce

Slowly whisk in heavy cream to the garlic butter, stirring constantly to create a smooth blend. Lower the heat and fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely into a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and chicken.

Step 5: Combine and Heat Through

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the rigatoni. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat each piece with the lush Parmesan sauce. Let it cook together for a few minutes to marry the flavors and heat evenly.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Plate your creation and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like a pop of color and brightness to balance the rich sauce. Serve immediately for the best experience—this dish is all about fresh, warm comfort.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a dash of cracked black pepper right before serving not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh, herbal lift that cuts through the richness. A few flakes of red pepper can also bring a touch of heat if you like a little kick.

Side Dishes

This creamy, hearty meal pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t overpower it. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables add freshness and texture contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that amazing sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls, layering the chicken on top with a final dusting of Parmesan. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a tiny dollop of herb-infused butter can add a gourmet flair. For family-style dining, use a large, colorful serving dish to invite everyone to dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, but a little gentle reheating with a splash of cream or milk brings back that luscious texture flawlessly.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, although the texture of the pasta might soften slightly upon thawing. Store in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for the best flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a bit of cream, milk, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving at high power as it can cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s ridges work perfectly for holding the creamy sauce, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle are great alternatives and will still deliver a satisfying texture.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Nutritional yeast works as a great Parmesan substitute to keep that cheesy flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Definitely. Chicken thighs add more richness and remain juicy even longer, which complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Just adjust cooking time until fully cooked.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce seems too thin, simmer it uncovered a little longer to reduce and thicken. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of cream, milk, or chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Just keep the sauce and pasta airtight and prepare to refresh on the stove before eating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce—it’s the perfect blend of comfort, simplicity, and elegance all in one dish. I encourage you to give it a try, whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. Once you do, it’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites that everyone will ask for again and again.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 20 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender sautéed chicken, al dente rigatoni pasta, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic and butter. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe comes together quickly and offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.

Instructions

Cook Rigatoni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
Sauté Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the chicken is cooked through and browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Add Cream and Parmesan: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Once heated through, reduce heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Chicken and Rigatoni: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the rigatoni pasta, and toss everything together to coat well with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and heat through.
Serve: Divide the creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni among plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting in the sauce.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a splash of pasta cooking water if it becomes too thick.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
Ensure not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness in the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Boiling
Cuisine: Italian