Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Chicken breasts, boneless & skinless; Rigatoni pasta; Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); Garlic, butter, and heavy cream; Chicken broth; Italian seasoning, salt, pepper

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or any time you want a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. The creamy Parmesan sauce, made with garlic butter, perfectly coats the rigatoni and chicken, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying, and the creamy richness will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Rigatoni pasta
Unsalted butter
Garlic
Heavy cream
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Chicken broth
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté in butter over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter. Add chicken broth and let it simmer, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth.
Combine: Add cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Extra veggies: Add spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and color.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little cream or pasta water to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken to the sauce, but be sure to heat it through before serving.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, though it may affect the richness.

What’s the best way to reheat the dish?

Reheat slowly on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to prevent the sauce from separating.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and assemble the dish when ready to serve.

What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?

Rigatoni is ideal due to its shape, but penne or fettuccine can be used as alternatives.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few extra minutes or add a bit more Parmesan cheese.

Can I add more garlic?

If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to increase the amount of garlic in the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce for a kick of heat.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but ensure the chicken is fully thawed and cut into smaller pieces before cooking.

How can I make the sauce smoother?

Ensure you stir continuously when adding the cream and Parmesan to prevent any separation.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with savory flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s quick to make and easy to customize, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

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Indulge in this creamy and savory garlic butter chicken rigatoni in a parmesan sauce, perfect for a quick, weeknight dinner. With tender chicken and rich, velvety sauce, it’s a family favorite that’s ready in just 25 minutes.