There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni. Picture this: tender pasta drenched in a velvety sauce, kissed by the rich flavors of garlic and butter, with bites of succulent chicken that are so juicy they could make a poet cry. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace as it tempts your taste buds and fills your heart with joy.
As I reminisce about the first time I made this delightful dish, I can’t help but chuckle. It was during one of those frantic weeknights when takeout seemed like the only option. But armed with my trusty apron and an overflowing spice cabinet, I decided to channel my inner chef. Let me tell you, this creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni recipe not only saved dinner but also earned me a standing ovation from my family (or maybe that was just their forks hitting the plates). Cajun Chicken Fettuccine Recipe Creamy Rigatoni with Cajun Steak Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory garlic and buttery goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- The visually appealing dish, with its golden sauce clinging delicately to the pasta, is sure to impress guests at any dinner party.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, it’s equally delightful served hot or as leftovers for lunch.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Rigatoni Pasta: Choose al dente pasta for the perfect bite; it holds onto sauce beautifully.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; feel free to substitute with thighs if you prefer.
- Fresh Garlic: Use at least four cloves; fresh garlic provides a robust flavor compared to powdered alternatives.
- Butter: Go for unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness; it adds richness to the sauce.
For the Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: Essential for creating that luscious, creamy texture; don’t skimp on quality!
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: To season your dish perfectly; always taste before adding more!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about six minutes per side). Remove from pan and let rest before slicing.
Step 3: Create Flavor Town
In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about one minute) but be careful not to burn it—no one likes bitter garlic! Add remaining butter.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring constantly. Bring this luscious mixture to a gentle simmer before adding grated Parmesan cheese until melted. If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Step 5: Marry Ingredients
Add sliced chicken back into the skillet along with cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together until well coated in that glorious sauce!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Plate your creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni and garnish with more freshly grated Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy! Drizzle some extra sauce over top for good measure.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this creamy goodness while basking in compliments from family and friends!
You Must Know
- This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe is a culinary hug for your taste buds.
- It combines mouthwatering flavors with a simple cooking process, making weeknight dinners an absolute delight.
- Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the rigatoni while preparing the creamy garlic butter sauce. This method ensures everything is perfectly timed and deliciously combined.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the rigatoni with penne or fusilli. Want to spice things up? Toss in some red pepper flakes or substitute fresh herbs for dried ones to customize your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove with a splash of cream to keep it creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your chicken liberally; it enhances flavor immensely.
- Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer for depth.
- Lastly, save some pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency when needed.
Cooking this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe brings back memories of hosting friends who couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip up such a feast. They still ask for it every time they visit! For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe?
To prepare the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, you will need rigatoni pasta, chicken breast, garlic, butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. You can also add salt and pepper to taste. Gathering all these ingredients ahead of time makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
How long does it take to cook Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?
Cooking the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparing the ingredients, cooking the chicken, boiling the pasta, and making the creamy sauce. It’s a quick meal option that is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family with minimal effort.
Can I customize the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe?
Absolutely! The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe is versatile. You can substitute chicken with shrimp or vegetables for a vegetarian version. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or cream based on your preferences. Adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can also enhance the flavor profile and nutrition of this dish. For more inspiration, check out this garlic shrimp recipe recipe.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare some elements of the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni ahead of time. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s best to cook the rigatoni and sauce fresh before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor. Reheating may alter the creaminess of the sauce.
Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe:
The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe offers a delicious combination of flavors that’s both easy and quick to prepare. With simple ingredients like chicken, garlic, and heavy cream, you can create a delightful meal in just 30 minutes. Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Feel free to customize it according to your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is a comforting dish that combines al dente rigatoni with succulent chicken, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the rigatoni: Boil salted water in a large pot, add rigatoni, and cook until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2. Sauté the chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; cook for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
- 3. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat and add minced garlic; sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add remaining butter, then stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- 4. Combine: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add sliced chicken and cooked rigatoni; toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- 5. Serve: Plate your dish and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap rigatoni for penne or fusilli. Add red pepper flakes for some heat or incorporate spinach for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
