There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, creamy dish that wraps you in a big hug, and that’s exactly what I love about creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce. This delightful recipe combines tender chunks of chicken with perfectly cooked rigatoni, all enveloped in a rich, velvety parmesan sauce that just melts in your mouth. It’s like a cozy Italian dinner right at your own table!
What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to whip up. In about 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that feels special enough for a Sunday dinner but simple enough for a weeknight. The garlic adds a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it feel like home. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and accessible. You don’t need to be a professional chef to bring this delicious meal to life! Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be dreaming of seconds. Let’s dive into the details so you can enjoy this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce for yourself!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce. I’ve made sure to provide clear measurements and preparation methods for each ingredient so you can gather them easily:
- 2 cups rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish, chopped
Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you want a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half and half. And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or zucchini can make a delightful substitute for the chicken. Just keep it simple and enjoy the process!
How to Prepare Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on this delicious journey! I promise, it’s simpler than it sounds. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting plate of creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce in no time!
Cooking the Rigatoni
First things first, let’s cook that rigatoni! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. You’ll want to add enough salt so it tastes like the sea—this really flavors the pasta. Once the water is boiling, toss in the rigatoni and cook it according to the package instructions. Generally, it takes about 10-12 minutes for the pasta to reach that perfect al dente texture. Remember to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick together. Once it’s cooked, drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a bit of that pasta water—it can be a lifesaver later on!
Preparing the Chicken
Now, let’s move on to the chicken. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The butter adds such a rich flavor, plus it helps to cook the chicken beautifully. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink in the center. You want those pieces to be golden brown and delicious! If you’re unsure, just cut one open to check—it should be juicy and fully cooked.
Making the Creamy Sauce
With the chicken perfectly cooked, it’s time to create that mouthwatering creamy sauce. Lower the heat slightly and add 4 minced cloves of garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly! Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken just a bit. Finally, stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Combining Everything
Now comes the best part—bringing it all together! Add the drained rigatoni into the skillet with the creamy sauce and chicken. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in that luscious sauce. This is where the magic happens, so take your time to make sure every piece of pasta gets that creamy goodness. Once everything is combined, let it cook for just a minute more so the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color and freshness. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Tips for Success
To make your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce turn out perfectly, I’ve got some helpful tips that will ensure success every time you whip up this comforting dish!
First, when cooking the rigatoni, don’t be shy with the salt in the boiling water. A well-salted pot makes all the difference in flavor. If you prefer a different pasta, feel free to swap in penne or fusilli—whatever you have on hand will work just fine!
For the chicken, using thighs instead of breasts can add extra juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can also grill or bake the chicken and then add it to the sauce. And for those who are avoiding gluten, just make sure to choose a gluten-free rigatoni; it’s widely available and works wonderfully!
Don’t forget that you can customize the sauce as well! If you want to lighten it up a bit, half and half or even unsweetened almond milk can be good substitutes for the heavy cream. Toss in some spinach or sautéed bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Cooking should be fun and adaptable, so feel free to make this dish your own!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional values of your meals can be really helpful, especially when you’re trying to make mindful choices. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional information for one serving of creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce, based on the ingredients we’ve used:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This dish is hearty and filling, with a nice balance of protein and carbohydrates. If you’re looking to reduce calories or fat, consider using half and half instead of heavy cream, or try reducing the amount of butter. Remember, these values can change based on any substitutions you make, but this gives you a good baseline to work from!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is a fantastic choice for this creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce, you can easily swap it out for other pasta shapes. Penne, fusilli, or even farfalle would work beautifully as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different pasta shapes may require slight adjustments. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold onto that delicious sauce—so pick what you love!
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, you have some delightful options! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini, which add great flavor and texture. Another fantastic choice is to use chickpeas or lentils for a protein boost. Just make sure to sauté them well with the garlic for that lovely aromatic flavor. You can still follow the same creamy sauce recipe, and trust me, it’ll be just as comforting!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance, which is perfect for busy days! You can cook the rigatoni and chicken, then combine them with the sauce, but I’d recommend storing them separately until you’re ready to serve. This way, the pasta won’t absorb too much sauce and become mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat everything gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to keep it creamy and smooth. It’s a great way to save time while still enjoying a homemade meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is a dish that truly brings joy to the table. Here’s why you’re going to adore it:
- Comforting Flavor: Each bite is a warm hug, with rich garlic and creamy parmesan that make you feel right at home.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
- Customizable: Feel free to make it your own! Whether you want to swap the chicken for veggies or try a different pasta, the possibilities are endless.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty meal, making it a hit at family dinners.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to whip up on a whim.
Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!
Equipment List
To make your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce, you’ll need just a few essential kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large Pot: For boiling the rigatoni. Make sure it’s big enough to hold plenty of water so the pasta can cook evenly.
- Colander: To drain the rigatoni after cooking. It’s handy for rinsing too, if you need to.
- Large Skillet: This is where all the magic happens! A non-stick skillet works great for browning the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and combining everything together without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you’re using the right amounts of each ingredient for perfect results.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the chicken and mincing the garlic. A sharp knife makes the task safer and easier!
With these simple tools, you’ll be all set to create your delicious meal with ease. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is simple, and it’s a great way to enjoy leftovers! First, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It should stay good for about 2-3 months, but trust me, it’s usually gone way before then!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore that creamy texture. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to avoid splatters. Just heat it in short intervals, stirring in between. Enjoy your cozy meal all over again!
For more information on the health benefits of garlic, you can visit Healthline.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni: 7 Cozy Steps
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the 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, about 1 minute.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until chicken is no longer pink.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half.
- Use whole wheat rigatoni for added fiber.
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- 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: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: creamy garlic butter chicken, rigatoni, parmesan sauce
