Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is like a warm hug on a plate, where tender chicken meets a creamy, garlicky sauce that wraps around perfectly cooked pasta. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your neighbors knocking on the door, eager for a taste of this delicious dish. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

Imagine sitting down after a busy day, ready to dig into this comforting meal that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or impressing unsuspecting guests who think instant noodles are gourmet. Get ready for a flavor experience that’ll have you dreaming about garlic butter!

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 are ideal; adjust based on your crowd size.

• Fresh Garlic: Use about 4-6 cloves; fresh garlic packs a punch compared to dried options.

• Rigatoni Pasta: Choose this tubular pasta for its ability to hold onto sauce and flavors beautifully.

• Unsalted Butter: Opt for unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of your dish better.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

• Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken; it adds flavor while helping to achieve that golden crust.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley makes a lovely garnish that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.

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: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 10-12 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them in the skillet until browned on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter

Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should be at least 165°F or 75°C), add minced garlic and unsalted butter to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute will do.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the rigatoni is done cooking, drain it (saving some pasta water). Add the pasta directly into the skillet with chicken. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir well until melted and integrated into every nook of that glorious rigatoni.

Step 6: Serve Up!

Transfer onto plates or into bowls for serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an added pop of color!

Serve this delightful Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan piping hot for maximum flavor impact! Enjoy every creamy bite while basking in post-dinner bliss—you’ve earned it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for a golden crust, then cook the rigatoni while you whip up that luscious garlic butter sauce. This method ensures everything is ready at the same time, making your dinner not just delicious but also efficient.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, to give the dish your personal flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess.

It was one of those evenings when my kitchen seemed like a tornado had just passed through it—flour everywhere and pots clanging like they were in a musical. I served this dish to friends, and their compliments made all the chaos worth it!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

To prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, gather boneless chicken breasts, rigatoni pasta, unsalted butter, fresh garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You will also need salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients blend beautifully to create a rich, flavorful dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

How long does it take to cook Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. This includes the time needed to boil the rigatoni pasta and sauté the chicken. The quick preparation makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various pasta shapes instead of rigatoni for this dish. Options such as penne, farfalle, or fusilli work well too. Each type of pasta brings a unique texture to the meal while still allowing the delicious garlic butter sauce to coat it perfectly. Feel free to choose your favorite pasta shape for a personalized touch.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan suitable for meal prep?

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an excellent choice for meal prep. The dish stores well in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This makes it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan :

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors. Using simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and cheese elevates this recipe into a comforting meal ideal for any occasion. Its quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy schedules while being suitable for meal prep too. Enjoy this delightful dish that promises satisfaction in every bite!

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Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and a creamy garlic sauce, enveloping perfectly cooked rigatoni. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for busy weeknight dinners or impressing guests who appreciate hearty flavors. The rich combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a delightful dining experience that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook rigatoni until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (165°F).
3. Add Garlic and Butter: Stir in minced garlic and butter, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained rigatoni to the skillet with the chicken. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
5. Finish with Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and well combined.
6. Serve Up: Plate the dish and garnish with chopped parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider substituting chicken with shrimp or adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.