If you are craving a dinner that is both comforting and impressive, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in 40 Minutes Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious combination of tender chicken chunks and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta, all bathed in a decadent garlic butter sauce that’s both silky and packed with flavor. The dish comes together quickly, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen. The richness of the cream and butter, balanced with the savory chicken broth and a pop of Parmesan cheese, creates a dish that’s indulgent yet straightforward, pleasing every forkful with warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is key to nailing this dish. Each component plays its part—from the garlic that infuses the sauce with aromatic depth, to the rigatoni pasta whose ridges hold onto every bit of that creamy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful feast.
- 8 ounces Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta’s ridges hold the sauce beautifully, making every bite a saucy delight.
- 1 pound Chicken Breast: Cut into chunks for quick cooking and to soak up all that sauce.
- 3 cloves Garlic Cloves: Sautéed to infuse a rich, hearty flavor that elevates the whole dish.
- 6 tablespoons Butter: Acts as the base for the sauce, lending it a wonderfully smooth texture.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious, velvety consistency that transforms the sauce into pure comfort.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth: Brings savory depth, balancing out the cream and butter.
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated for a salty, nutty finish.
- Salt to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together in harmony.
- Black Pepper to taste: Adds a gentle kick that enhances the overall profile.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Perfect for searing the chicken and adding a subtle fruity note.
- Fresh Parsley or Basil (optional): For garnish, adding a fresh, herbal brightness to the dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in 40 Minutes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This timing is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook slightly once mixed with the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside but reserve a cup of pasta water — it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks, seasoning them with a bit of salt and pepper, and sear until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Removing the chicken and setting it aside ensures it stays juicy and tender when added back into the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté gently until fragrant and golden, careful not to let it burn or become bitter. This step releases all the wonderful aromatics that give the dish its signature flavor.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring as you bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This combination creates a rich, flavorful sauce base that’s both creamy and slightly savory. Let it bubble lightly so the sauce thickens just enough to coat the rigatoni perfectly.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water can help loosen it up while keeping it perfectly creamy.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss in your rigatoni. Stir everything together gently, making sure the pasta is generously coated with the sauce and the chicken pieces are evenly distributed. This final step melds all the flavors beautifully for that comforting, irresistible finish.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in 40 Minutes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are the perfect finishing touch. Not only do they add a pop of vibrant green color, but their fresh, herbal notes lighten the richness of the creamy sauce, adding a lovely balance and visual appeal to your plate.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad or steamed veggies, such as broccolini or asparagus, provide a refreshing contrast that complements the dish’s richness. Crusty garlic bread is also a fantastic choice to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful presentation, serve the rigatoni in deep bowls with a generous sprinkle of additional Parmesan and a sprig of fresh herbs on top. You could also drizzle a little high-quality olive oil or a touch of chili flakes for a subtle heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni keeps well for up to 3 days and is just as delicious when reheated gently.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze your leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the silky sauce texture. Avoid the microwave for best results to keep the chicken tender and the rigatoni from getting mushy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding sauce with its ridges, penne, ziti, or even fusilli can work wonderfully if you prefer a different shape.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives. Nutritional yeast can be a great replacement for Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor.
Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just adjust cooking times slightly since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving. It adds a lovely heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the dish, while a light Chardonnay complements the buttery sauce nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in 40 Minutes Recipe is truly a game-changer for busy cooks who crave bold, comforting flavors without the fuss. It’s an effortless yet indulgent meal that feels like a special treat any night of the week. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to dinners—you’re going to love how simple, delicious, and satisfying this dish is every single time!
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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in 40 Minutes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulgent Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is a comforting and rich pasta dish ready in just 40 minutes. Tender chicken breast chunks are seared and simmered in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce, then tossed with rigatoni pasta that perfectly holds every bit of the savory sauce. This easy one-skillet meal combines bold flavors of garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs for a dinner that feels both decadent and satisfying, ideal for weeknight family meals or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces Rigatoni Pasta
Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken Breast, cut into chunks
Sauce
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 6 tablespoons Butter
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, finely grated
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
Garnish
- Fresh Parsley or Basil, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sear Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken chunks seasoned with salt and pepper, and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, then add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Make Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Taste sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat all pieces in the creamy sauce evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top if using, and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breast for more juiciness.
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
