Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that will make your family ask for seconds. With the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and creamy Parmesan, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your home. The tender chicken brings heartiness to the dish, while the rigatoni grabs onto every bit of that creamy sauce. You can almost smell the savory scents wafting through your kitchen. This meal not only satisfies your tastebuds but also warms your heart, making it perfect for cozy nights in.

Get ready to indulge in this comforting meal that is simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to please. #PastaLove #DinnerIdeas

Why Make This Recipe

You will love making Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce for many reasons:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic and buttery chicken creates a flavor explosion that everyone will enjoy.
• Creamy Goodness: The creamy Parmesan sauce is irresistible and makes the pasta incredibly smooth.
• Family Favorite: It’s a meal that both kids and adults will love, ensuring happy faces at the dinner table.
• Customizable: You can add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Making Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a delicious homemade meal everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Step 1: Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
5. Step 5: Mix in the cooked rigatoni pasta until well coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Serve this dish warm in a large bowl or individual plates. You can offer extra grated Parmesan on the side, allowing guests to add as much cheese as they like. For a pop of color, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top. Pair this dish with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or warm in a skillet with a splash of heavy cream to keep it creamy.

Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until it is browned and cooked through. Overcooking can make it dry.
• Variations: Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
• Cheese options: If you love cheese, try mixing different kinds like mozzarella or adding a sprinkle of feta for a twist.

Variation

You can easily modify this dish to fit your family’s tastes. Try adding spinach for a healthy boost or substituting the chicken with shrimp or sausage. For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat rigatoni in this recipe?

Yes, whole wheat rigatoni works great and adds extra fiber.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta alternatives.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving to ensure freshness.

4. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

5. How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you like it hot.

Personal Cook’s Note

As a cook, I am always on the lookout for family-friendly recipes, and Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a go-to in my home. It reminds me of warm nights spent around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. The flavors blend so well, and it’s a hit every time! I love to garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color. I encourage you to give it a try, and please let me know how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!