Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan

Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. This recipe showcases tender chicken pieces enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with rigatoni pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese. It’s simple yet elegant, making it an instant favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute ingredients easily according to what’s in your pantry or personal preferences.
• Comfort Food Favorite: This hearty meal is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan, gather your tools and prepare yourself for a delicious cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling rigatoni pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for creating the rich garlic butter sauce while cooking the chicken to perfection.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth mixing of ingredients when making the creamy sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 5 cloves garlic, finely minced

For the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to combine smoothly. Then add heavy cream slowly, whisking until you achieve a creamy consistency. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add cooked rigatoni back into the skillet along with sautéed chicken. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute on low heat to warm through.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor! Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some delightful ways to present this creamy dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad (without anchovies): Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing make for a classic pairing.

Add Bread for Dipping

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft, fluffy focaccia bread adds an Italian flair and pairs beautifully with this dish.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan: A generous shaving of Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan

To achieve the best version of Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken broth enhance the flavors significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your rigatoni is cooked al dente for the perfect texture that holds the sauce well.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; salt and pepper can be adjusted to suit your palate.
• Incorporate Veggies: Adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can provide extra nutrition and flavor.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoying it hot ensures you experience the creamy texture at its best.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan

Complementing Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with the right side dishes can round out your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that balances the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and flavor to your plate.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a refreshing contrast to the creamy rigatoni.
4. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor from grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with chicken and cream sauces.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles on the side for added texture without heavy carbs.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs offers an aromatic side that complements Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid overcooking the pasta. Perfectly cooked rigatoni should have a slight bite or al dente texture. To prevent overcooking, follow package instructions and taste as you go.
• Don’t ignore seasoning. Properly seasoning your chicken and sauce enhances flavor. Always taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Skip the resting time for chicken. Letting cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting helps retain moisture. This keeps it juicy in the final dish.
• Forget about using fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and herbs significantly boost flavor compared to dried versions. Whenever possible, opt for fresh produce to enhance your dish.
• Neglecting sauce consistency can ruin your meal. If the sauce is too thick, add more broth or cream gradually. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to thicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep the dish fresh.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan

• Use a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan

• Use the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Use the Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Use the Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan?
Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan is a delicious pasta dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, combined with rigatoni pasta and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Feel free to adjust seasonings based on personal preference as well.

How can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use whole wheat rigatoni instead of regular pasta and reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe while adding more vegetables.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also add garlic bread for extra comfort food vibes.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan is not only satisfying but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you enjoy it as is or decide to customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings, this dish promises comfort and flavor in every bite. Give it a try today!