Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is like a warm hug from your grandmother, only without the awkward questions about when you’re getting married. Picture this: succulent chicken swimming in a luscious garlic butter sauce, enveloped in twirls of rigatoni, all topped off with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to do a little dance in the kitchen and then promptly eat it all by yourself.
This recipe isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about creating memories. I remember the first time I made this for friends during a cozy dinner party. The aroma wafting through my small apartment was so intoxicating that it could’ve convinced even the pickiest eaters to dive right in. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan will undoubtedly become a favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners effortless
- The flavor combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a rich taste experience
- Its visual appeal makes it an impressive dish for entertaining guests
- Versatile enough to customize with seasonal veggies or proteins, it’s sure to please everyone at your table
I still chuckle when I think about my friend who insisted on adding extra garlic because she thought it would make her invincible. Spoiler alert: she didn’t become invincible but did request the recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts depending on your crowd; they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Fresh Garlic: Go for firm cloves; fresh garlic adds that aromatic punch we all crave.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness; it creates that silky sauce.
Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for rigatoni as its tubular shape holds onto that dreamy sauce beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; its nutty flavor elevates the entire dish.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle on top not only looks great but also adds freshness and color.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these basics!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before starting to prevent any last-minute dashes to the store. This sets you up for success!
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook rigatoni until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside while reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until foamy. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, around 5-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic Delightfully: Once chicken is cooked through, remove from skillet and let rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned – about 1 minute.
Create Your Sauce: Pour in reserved pasta water along with additional butter to create a luscious sauce. Stir well to combine flavors while scraping any tasty bits stuck at the bottom.
Toss It All Together!: Return chicken to the skillet along with cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together until well coated with that heavenly garlic butter sauce. Finish it off with freshly grated Parmesan and parsley.
Cooking should be fun! Don’t hesitate to tweak seasonings or add veggies based on what you have available—this dish thrives on creativity! Enjoy every bite of your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan!
You Must Know
- Garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and Parmesan is a comforting dish that’s both quick and delicious
- This recipe highlights the magic of garlic, creamy butter, and savory cheese harmonizing perfectly for a delightful meal
- The aroma alone will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken until golden brown, then cook the rigatoni while preparing your rich garlic butter sauce for perfect harmony in timing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap rigatoni for penne or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Experimentation can lead to delightful surprises!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F internally
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; flavors can evolve during cooking!
I remember the first time I made garlic butter chicken with rigatoni; my friends devoured it within minutes and insisted I make it every week. Their enthusiasm still makes me chuckle!
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can easily substitute rigatoni with penne or fusilli for variety.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
What side dishes pair well with garlic butter chicken?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully, adding freshness and crunch.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a comforting, indulgent dish that combines tender chicken and pasta in a decadent garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ensuring your meal will impress family and friends alike. With the rich flavors of garlic, creamy butter, and savory Parmesan, each bite offers a delightful harmony that is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by gathering everything needed.
- Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; add to the skillet and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes per side). Remove and let rest.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add reserved pasta water to the skillet along with additional butter to create the sauce. Mix well.
- Return the chicken to the skillet with cooked rigatoni; toss until well coated with sauce. Finish with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
