Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender, seared chicken with rigatoni tossed in a silky garlic-parmesan cream sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest — cheesy, creamy, and packed with garlic and herb goodness, perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The chicken is juicy and full of flavor, the rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully, and the creamy parmesan sauce ties it all together with indulgent richness. It’s a one-skillet-style meal that’s easy to prepare, comes together in about 30–40 minutes, and tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rigatoni pasta
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the sauce: Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Combine everything: Add the cooked rigatoni and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Simmer for 1–2 more minutes to heat through.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with garlic bread or a simple salad.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for color and texture.
• Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use other pasta shapes: Penne, fettuccine, or farfalle all work well.
• Swap the chicken: Try with shrimp or cooked sausage for a different protein.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Not recommended for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just slice and add it to the sauce toward the end to heat through.

What’s the best cream to use?

Heavy cream gives the richest texture, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit of flour or cornstarch to help thicken if needed.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check labels on broth and seasoning to ensure no hidden gluten.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use medium heat and avoid boiling after adding the cheese. Stir gently and continuously.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and chicken ahead, then cook pasta fresh and combine when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dish?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad pair perfectly.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a satisfying alternative.

What herbs go well with this?

Parsley, basil, or thyme all complement the creamy garlic and cheese flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a decadent and delicious dinner that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for guests. The savory sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta make this a dish you’ll want to make again and again — it’s a guaranteed favorite with rich flavors and comforting textures in every bite.

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