Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is the kind of dish that hits you right in the flavor feels. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a velvety garlic butter sauce, mingling delightfully with al dente rigatoni and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Your kitchen will smell like a cozy Italian bistro, making it impossible not to drool just a little. For more inspiration, check out this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe.
This dish isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds; it tells a story. Picture cozy family dinners, where laughter fills the air and everyone fights over the last bite of creamy goodness. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is sure to steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing chicken dish combines rich flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare.
- The comforting aroma of garlic butter will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
- It’s visually stunning with colorful ingredients that transform any dinner table into a feast.
- Ideal for family gatherings or simple weeknight dinners, this recipe offers versatility for all occasions.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; feel free to adjust based on your guest list.
- Fresh Garlic: Use several cloves for that irresistible garlic punch; make sure they’re firm and fragrant.
- Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape holds onto sauce beautifully; you’ll want about 12 ounces for four servings.
- Unsalted Butter: For a rich flavor and silky texture; don’t skimp on this golden goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated provides the best flavor; don’t be shy—add extra if you dare!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping it tasty.
- Fresh Parsley: A handful of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter until bubbly.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about six minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add more butter (about three tablespoons) along with minced garlic. Sauté for one minute until fragrant but not browned—nobody wants burnt garlic!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Pour in one cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in drained rigatoni followed by grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into creamy bliss.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Slice the cooked chicken and nestle it into your cheesy pasta masterpiece. If needed, use reserved pasta water to thin out your sauce for that perfect consistency.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Serve immediately while warm, garnished with fresh parsley for that Instagram-ready look!
And there you have it! A plateful of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan that’s bound to become your new go-to comfort food! Enjoy every mouthful while basking in culinary glory—your friends will be so impressed they might even start calling you a gourmet chef!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing your chicken in a hot pan to lock in that juicy goodness. While the chicken is sizzling, boil your rigatoni until al dente, then prepare the garlic butter sauce simultaneously for the ultimate time-saving strategy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a colorful twist, or sprinkle in some chili flakes for a spicy kick that will make your taste buds dance.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist and delicious—nobody wants dry pasta!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking throughout.
- Take care not to overcrowd the pan while searing; this helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Lastly, taste as you go; adjusting seasoning can elevate your dish dramatically!
Cooking this garlic butter chicken with rigatoni brings back memories of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter over heaping plates of delicious food.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
To prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, gather chicken breasts, rigatoni pasta, garlic, unsalted butter, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. You can also add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. One Skillet Garlic Butter Dish Ensure you have plant-based gelling agents if you plan on thickening any sauces. This combination of ingredients will result in a delicious dish that is both satisfying and easy to make.
How long does it take to cook Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Start by boiling the rigatoni according to package instructions, which typically takes around 10 to 12 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the chicken in garlic butter until golden brown and fully cooked through. Combine the pasta with the chicken and sauce for a delightful meal. This quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan gluten-free by substituting traditional rigatoni with gluten-free pasta options. Many brands offer a variety of gluten-free pastas made from rice, corn, or lentils that work well in this recipe. Thai Peanut Chicken Variation Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal without compromising on taste.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed greens salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You may also consider serving it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up any leftover sauce. A light vinaigrette or lemon dressing on the salad adds a refreshing touch that complements the richness of the chicken dish beautifully.
Conclusion for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan :
In summary, Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Recipe ensures convenience without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this comforting meal that brings together rich garlic flavors and creamy Parmesan goodness!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce with perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. This creamy, comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, filling your home with irresistible aromas. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sauté chicken for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/75°C). Remove from skillet and cover loosely with foil.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then stir in rigatoni and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet; mix everything gently. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 630
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: - For additional flavor, consider adding vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. - Substitute chicken with turkey or beef for variations. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; add broth when reheating to maintain moisture.
