Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is like a warm hug on a plate, wrapped in creamy goodness and topped with a sprinkle of magic. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a pool of garlic butter, mingling with perfectly cooked rigatoni, all while parmesan rains down like snow on a winter’s day. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising an unforgettable feast that’s both comforting and indulgent.
This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air along with the tantalizing smell of garlic sizzling away. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this recipe brings everyone together. Get ready to embark on an exciting flavor journey that will make your taste buds dance!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich blend of flavors creates a creamy delight that makes every bite unforgettable
- Its beautiful presentation will impress your guests at any gathering
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this dish can easily adapt to suit your ingredient preferences
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe; adjust the quantity based on how many you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Use about 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic for the best flavor; minced garlic enhances the dish wonderfully.
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Rigatoni Pasta: Approximately 12 ounces of rigatoni works perfectly; its ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully.
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Unsalted Butter: About 1/2 cup of unsalted butter adds richness and depth; feel free to use more if you’re feeling adventurous!
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Grated Parmesan Cheese: A generous cup of freshly grated parmesan brings that cheesy goodness; avoid pre-grated cheese for better melting.
For the Seasoning:
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Italian Seasoning: Use about one tablespoon; it adds herby notes that balance the richness of the butter.
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Salt and Pepper: To taste; these basics elevate all flavors in this dish.
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: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray—because nobody wants their precious chicken sticking around longer than necessary.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season your boneless chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them in the baking dish like they’re about to take center stage in a cooking show.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Slide that baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. You want juicy perfection here!
Step 4: Cook the Rigatoni
While your chicken bakes away like a champion, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Toss in the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining!
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt half a cup of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about two minutes should do it! Stir in half of your grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Once everything is cooked, mix together the rigatoni, baked chicken (sliced or diced), and your creamy garlic butter sauce. If it looks too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until you reach that dreamy consistency.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more sauce for that Instagram-worthy finish—because who doesn’t love sharing their culinary masterpieces? Enjoy every delicious bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
- With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary celebration
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this dish shines on any table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken in garlic butter first to lock in flavor, then simultaneously cook the rigatoni while you prepare your luscious sauce. This efficient sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out rigatoni for your favorite pasta shape, or add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Alternative seasonings such as Italian herbs can also elevate the dish to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta creamy and prevent it from drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh garlic for maximum flavor
- If you overcook the chicken, it can become dry—aim for golden brown!
- Don’t skip on adding cheese at the end; it’s essential for that irresistible creaminess
It was a rainy Saturday when I first whipped up this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for my family. The smiles around the table were priceless; even my picky eater cousin declared it “the best thing ever!” Who knew butter could bring so much joy?
FAQs:
What makes Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan unique?
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan stands out due to its rich flavor profile. The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic butter sauce, and hearty rigatoni creates a delightful dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The addition of Parmesan cheese enhances the dish’s umami flavor, making it irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
How long does it take to prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Preparing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta, sautéing the chicken, and preparing the garlic butter sauce. With simple steps involved, you can whip up this delicious meal quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, the time spent cooking is well worth the flavorful results! For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.
Can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Absolutely! You can customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan to suit your tastes. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. Additionally, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Adjusting ingredients allows you to create a personalized version while maintaining the essence of this delicious dish. For more inspiration, check out this delicious main dishes recipe.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables complements the richness of the dish perfectly. You might also consider serving garlic bread on the side to soak up any leftover sauce. For those who love a heartier meal, pairing it with roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto can elevate your dining experience.
Conclusion for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan offers an easy yet flavorful meal option that delights every palate. With its quick preparation time and customizable ingredients, this recipe fits seamlessly into any dining occasion. The harmonious blend of garlic butter sauce, chicken, rigatoni, and Parmesan creates a comforting experience that leaves you wanting more. Enjoy this dish as part of your culinary repertoire for delicious family meals!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that will elevate any meal. Tender chicken breasts are baked to perfection and tossed with al dente rigatoni in a creamy garlic butter sauce, topped off with freshly grated Parmesan. This comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Stir in half of the Parmesan until melted.
- Combine rigatoni, baked chicken (sliced), and garlic butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
