Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dinner: garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce! It’s one of those dishes that just wraps you in a warm hug after a long day. The way the creamy sauce clings to the rigatoni is pure comfort, and the garlic butter chicken adds that rich, savory punch that keeps me coming back for more. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again! It’s perfect for cozy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends and want to impress them without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so almost everyone can enjoy it! Let’s dive into how to make this deliciousness happen in your own kitchen!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this scrumptious garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: This is the star of the dish! Cook it al dente for that perfect bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Just enough to sauté the chicken and add a hint of flavor.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best. Cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings so much flavor to the dish, so don’t skimp!
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. Don’t substitute with low-fat alternatives; you want that luxurious texture!
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: I love using freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.
- Salt to taste: Always taste as you go! A little salt enhances all the flavors.
- Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: This isn’t just for looks! It adds a fresh touch that brightens the dish.
Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process a breeze, so take a moment to measure and chop before you start cooking!
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking this amazing garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, you’ll want to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it; you want that starch to help the sauce cling!
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The smell will be amazing!
- Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—it can turn bitter quickly!
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the sauce is ready, toss in the cooked rigatoni, making sure every piece is coated in that luscious sauce. Serve it up hot, garnished with chopped parsley for that fresh pop!
And there you have it! A delightful garlic butter chicken rigatoni that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic butter chicken with creamy parmesan sauce is absolutely mouthwatering. Each bite is packed with savory goodness!
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this gorgeous dish in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without all the fuss.
- Comfort Food Classic: The creamy texture and hearty rigatoni make this a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate, ideal for cozy dinners.
- Impress Your Guests: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a fancy dinner party, this dish is sure to wow your friends and family. They’ll think you spent hours in the kitchen!
- Flexible Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out the chicken for shrimp or adding your favorite veggies. It’s versatile enough to suit everyone’s tastes.
- Gluten-Free Option: With a simple substitution of gluten-free pasta, everyone can enjoy this creamy delight. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Tips for Success
To make sure your garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips from my kitchen to yours:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and good-quality parmesan cheese make a *huge* difference in flavor. Don’t reach for that pre-minced garlic; the fresh stuff is where the magic happens!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember, you want your rigatoni to be al dente! It will continue to cook a bit when you toss it with the sauce, so take it off the heat just before it’s fully cooked.
- Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, which can lead to a bitter taste. Sauté it just until it’s fragrant—about a minute is usually perfect!
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you like your sauce extra creamy, feel free to add a splash more heavy cream or parmesan. Just taste as you go to get it just right!
- Season Gradually: Season with salt and pepper little by little. It’s always easier to add more than to take it away if you’ve overdone it!
- Garnish with Love: Don’t skip the parsley garnish! It adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens the whole dish.
- Make it Your Own: Don’t hesitate to experiment! If you want to throw in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms, go for it. This recipe is all about what you love!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll create a creamy, comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up, there are so many fun variations you can try with this garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce! Here are some ideas to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences:
- Shrimp Scampi Style: Swap out the chicken for shrimp! Just sauté the shrimp until they’re pink and cooked through, then follow the same steps. The garlic butter will pair beautifully with the shrimp!
- Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian option, toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can even add some roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor!
- Pesto Twist: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of your favorite pesto into the creamy sauce. This adds a delicious herbal note that elevates the dish!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. It gives the dish a nice zing!
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses! Try using goat cheese for a tangy flavor or mozzarella for a classic cheesy stretch.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free rigatoni to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as it can vary!
- Herbed Chicken: Marinate the chicken in herbs like thyme or rosemary before cooking for an extra depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
These variations allow you to customize your dish based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Get creative and make this recipe your own! Enjoy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for my garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce. Keep in mind these numbers are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying in each delicious serving:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This hearty dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying choice for dinner. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite knowing you’re indulging in something delicious and fulfilling!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding that creamy parmesan sauce, you can use any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti will work just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of milk and butter to achieve a similar creamy texture.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can enhance the flavor and make the dish even more nutritious. Just sauté them along with the chicken or add them in when you add the cream.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce is fantastic for meal prep! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if it looks too thick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can! Just follow the recipe, and once it’s cooked, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat and enjoy that creamy goodness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those tasty leftovers! You’ll want to store your garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce properly to keep it delicious for the next day (or two!). Here’s how:
- Storing: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. It should keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating on the stovetop for the best results. Just add a splash of heavy cream or a little chicken broth to loosen up the sauce, and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This way, you’ll keep that creamy texture intact!
- Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can pop it in the microwave. Just place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters), and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot. Again, adding a little cream or broth can help revive the sauce.
And there you go! Storing and reheating your garlic butter chicken rigatoni in creamy parmesan sauce can be just as delightful as when you first made it. Enjoy every scrumptious bite, even on round two!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious dish featuring rigatoni pasta coated in a creamy parmesan sauce with garlic butter chicken.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss cooked rigatoni in the sauce until well coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of parmesan to your preference.
- Can substitute chicken with shrimp or vegetables.
- 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: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: garlic butter chicken rigatoni, creamy parmesan sauce, pasta recipes, chicken dinner
