Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

Rich, comforting, and indulgently creamy—Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the kind of pasta dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With tender bites of garlic-infused chicken, perfectly al dente rigatoni, and a velvety sauce made from cream, milk, and fresh Parmesan, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing a comforting lunch for your family or looking for a dish worthy of date night, this recipe brings elegance to your kitchen without requiring advanced skills or hours of effort.

The dish comes together in under an hour, yet it delivers layers of flavor and texture that taste like you’ve been simmering all day. It’s the perfect fusion of homey and gourmet—a restaurant-style pasta that’s surprisingly achievable in a home kitchen. Using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, this dish becomes a favorite in no time. The buttery garlic notes balance beautifully with the richness of the cheese, while the tender chicken and pasta soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply indulging in comfort food done right, this recipe offers a creamy, dreamy pasta experience that you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Sauce: A blend of heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan creates a velvety, flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
2. Easy Yet Impressive: Despite its gourmet feel, the recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
3. Full of Flavor: Garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional) add bold, savory notes that elevate the dish.
4. Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for both casual family meals and special gatherings.
5. One Pan Simplicity: Most of the sauce is made in a single skillet, reducing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Ingredients

• Rigatoni pasta
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Whole milk
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Swap the Protein

Use shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken for a different spin on the dish.

Go Meatless

Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.

Lighten It Up

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter sauce.

Pasta Alternatives

Substitute penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.

Spice It Up

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a bolder kick.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir to combine. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Add red pepper flakes if using.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese won’t give the same creamy texture.
• Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be golden and fragrant, not brown or bitter.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
• Finish with a crack of black pepper and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra flavor boost.

How to Serve

Serve this pasta hot, straight from the skillet, with a side of crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For a more complete Italian-inspired meal, pair with roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter. It also makes a satisfying standalone dish, especially with extra cheese grated on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but add it to the sauce just to heat through—don’t overcook or it may dry out.

2. Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely—penne, ziti, or fettuccine work well in this recipe.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and check labels on other ingredients.

4. Is it spicy with the red pepper flakes?

Only mildly—it adds warmth, not heat. Omit or increase to taste.

5. What’s the best cheese substitute for Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano is a great alternative with a sharper flavor.

6. Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For balance, use half-and-half.

7. How can I thicken the sauce more?

Let it simmer slightly longer, or add a bit more cheese.

8. Should I reserve pasta water?

Yes, it helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta better.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your skillet is large enough to hold all the ingredients.

10. Is it okay to make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, store the sauce and pasta separately and combine when reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. It’s everything you want in a pasta dish—rich, savory, and satisfyingly creamy—without being overly complicated. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Keep it in your regular rotation for a meal that’s always a hit.

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