Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering. The rich garlic butter sauce enhances the tender chicken and rigatoni, creating a comforting meal that is quick to prepare yet packed with flavor. With its irresistible taste and satisfying texture, this dish will surely impress your guests while being simple enough for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: This recipe requires only 10 minutes of prep, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates the entire dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding vegetables or using different pasta shapes.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves creamy pasta! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Its elegant presentation makes it suitable for special occasions or dinner parties.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and helps you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
- Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and making the garlic butter sauce in one pan, enhancing flavors without extra cleanup.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Add rigatoni and mix until fully coated. Let it simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
With these easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan that everyone will love!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful experience that can be enhanced by various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing complement the richness of the pasta.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing touch.
- Greek Salad – A mix of cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese brings a Mediterranean flair to your meal.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread – Toasted bread spread with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Focaccia – This soft, herbed bread pairs well with the creamy pasta and provides a satisfying texture.
Garnish Creatively
- Extra Parmesan – Serving extra grated Parmesan on the side allows guests to personalize their dish.
- Fresh Herbs – Chopped basil or parsley adds color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, follow these handy tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality chicken for maximum flavor in your dish.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta – Cook rigatoni until al dente to ensure it maintains its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving; you may want to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Reserve Pasta Water – The starchy pasta water can help thin out your sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Enhancing your meal with side dishes can elevate the dining experience. Here are some great options that pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the rich flavors of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables brings sweetness and depth, making it an excellent complement.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Buttery mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the pasta’s creaminess.
- Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles offer a fresh contrast without overpowering the main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – A healthier twist that still gives you that creamy texture without all the carbs.
- Ratatouille – This vegetable-rich dish adds vibrant flavors that harmonize beautifully with garlic butter sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a joy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Underseasoning the chicken – If you don’t season the chicken properly, it may taste bland. Always use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning generously.
- Overcooking the pasta – Cooking rigatoni too long can lead to mushy pasta. Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
- Skipping the reserved pasta water – This water adds starchiness that helps bind the sauce to the pasta. Don’t forget to reserve it before draining!
- Using cold ingredients – Starting with cold cream or broth can affect the sauce’s texture. Let them come to room temperature before use.
- Not letting the sauce simmer long enough – If you rush this step, your sauce will be thin and less flavorful. Allow it a few minutes to thicken properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep separate from any additional garnishes for best results.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- For best results, freeze without garnishes or extra cheese.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot throughout. Cover to prevent splatter.
- Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan.
How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan gluten-free?
You can substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I use another type of pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! You can use penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
For a lighter option, try using half-and-half or coconut milk. However, these substitutes may alter the richness of the dish slightly.
How long does Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan take to prepare?
The total time is approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting dish!

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a creamy, comforting dish that brings the rich flavors of garlic and butter together in perfect harmony. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed to golden perfection, then enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce mixed with rigatoni and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This recipe is not only quick to whip up but also versatile—perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that will impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and let it thicken for about 3-4 minutes before adding Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Combine cooked chicken and rigatoni in the skillet, tossing until well coated with the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg