Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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If you’re craving the ultimate comfort meal, you’ll fall head over heels for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. This gorgeous pasta dish brings together juicy chicken, perfectly al dente rigatoni, and the dreamiest garlic-parmesan sauce. Each forkful feels like a warm hug — the flavor is rich yet balanced, the texture is indulgently creamy, and the scent of butter and garlic filling your kitchen is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is destined to become a recurring favorite!

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity is the secret to making the best Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. Every ingredient here is carefully chosen for big flavor, luxurious texture, and a pop of color to make your plate irresistible. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each element matters.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces so every forkful gets infused with sauce and remains juicy.
Butter: The foundation of silkiness, butter means both flavor and the perfect, luscious texture for your sauce.
Garlic: Nothing compares to fresh garlic—it’s aromatic, savory, and brings a subtle sweetness once sautéed.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth and enhances the savoriness of the sauce, keeping it from tasting heavy or flat.
Heavy Cream: The key to that velvety sauce; it makes everything rich without overpowering the other flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is always best for that nutty, salty kick and melting texture.
Rigatoni Pasta: This shape’s ridges catch every last drop of sauce, ensuring you don’t miss a bit of flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A herb blend that provides freshness and complexity in every bite.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate and balance all the other flavors.
Fresh Parsley: A scattering on top adds color and a welcome herbaceous note right before serving.

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

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your rigatoni. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s tender yet firm to the bite (al dente). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water—it can be handy if you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Melt two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as it’s bubbling, scatter in your chicken pieces. Season them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden and is fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate to keep it juicy and free up the skillet for the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Base

Into the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—the fond adds so much flavor!), toss in the remaining tablespoon of butter and your minced garlic. Let the garlic sizzle gently for about a minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown; you want mellow garlic flavor, not bitterness.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Now, pour in the chicken broth. Give everything a good stir, scraping up any golden bits still stuck to the pan. Allow the broth to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to intensify the flavor and reduce slightly—you’re creating the backbone for that irresistible creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously as the cheese melts, transforming the sauce into a silky, thick, and glossy blanket. Let it bubble gently for another 2-3 minutes. The kitchen will smell incredible at this point!

Step 6: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Return your golden chicken pieces to the skillet along with the cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together until every noodle and piece of chicken is coated in that luscious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. If the sauce is a bit thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the finished dish to bowls or a big serving platter. Sprinkle with plenty of freshly chopped parsley for color and brightness. Serve immediately while everything is creamy and piping hot—the flavors really shine when fresh off the stove!

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

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is just the start! Try a generous sprinkling of extra grated Parmesan for even more savory richness. A crack of fresh black pepper over the top adds both flavor and a subtle, spicy aroma. If you like a little zip, a pinch of red pepper flakes will wake up your taste buds without overpowering the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

The richness of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil cuts through the creaminess, or opt for garlicky roasted broccoli or asparagus for a pop of color and crunch. Don’t forget a slice of warm, crusty bread to mop up every drop of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dinner party presentation, twirl the rigatoni and chicken onto plates using tongs, then drape extra sauce over the top. Serve in a large, shallow pasta bowl for family-style feasting, or portion into individual ramekins and briefly broil with extra Parmesan for a bubbly, golden crust. No matter the method, it always steals the spotlight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the cooled Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days without losing its signature creamy texture or rich flavor. Be sure to store the parsley garnish separately so it stays fresh!

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the creamy sauce may separate a bit upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then package it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop individual portions into a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s silky consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent hot spots. Add your parsley and extra Parmesan right before serving for that fresh-from-the-stove taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and stay extra juicy. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and prepare as you would with chicken breasts for your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. For dairy-free options, try full-fat coconut milk or a creamy unsweetened cashew milk substitute.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Of course! While rigatoni is ideal for holding onto the sauce, penne, ziti, or even fettuccine work beautifully. Just pick something sturdy enough to carry that creamy garlic butter sauce.

How can I add vegetables to this dish?

Stir in some baby spinach or steamed broccoli florets when you combine the pasta and chicken with the sauce. Peas or sun-dried tomatoes also make bright and tasty additions that give character to your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce.

Can I make this ahead for a dinner party?

Definitely! Prepare everything up to combining the chicken, pasta, and sauce. Store it covered in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove before serving. Save your garnishes for the last minute to keep them vibrant.

Final Thoughts

I hope this cozy, flavor-packed Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce lights up your next weeknight or special meal as much as it does in my kitchen! Every bite is pure joy, and once you try it, I promise it’ll earn a regular spot on your dinner rotation. Give it a whirl and enjoy the creamy, garlicky, cheesy goodness!

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 30 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

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Description

Indulge in a decadent dish of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce that is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety Parmesan sauce come together beautifully in this comforting meal.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta – Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken – In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add Cream and Parmesan – Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Chicken – Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the cooked rigatoni pasta. Toss to combine, coating the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian