Introduction
Cooking can often be a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, a chance to create something comforting for ourselves and our loved ones. Imagine the warmth of your kitchen filled with the rich aroma of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan wafting through the air, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that can bring everyone together, sparking conversations and laughter around the dining table. Here, in this simple but delicious dish, lies the promise of shared memories and the joy of nourishing those you care about.
As you prepare this delightful recipe, you might find yourself reminiscing about family dinners or cozy evenings spent with friends. The combination of tender chicken, savory garlic butter, and hearty rigatoni, all topped with a sprinkle of rich Parmesan, is enough to make anyone feel at home. This dish is not only meant to satisfy hunger but also to fuel connection and warmth that lingers long after the last bite. So, let’s gather the ingredients and embark on this culinary journey together, creating a moment in time that you and your loved ones can cherish.
Detailed Ingredients
- Chicken breast (2 large, boneless and skinless)
- Garlic cloves (4, minced)
- Butter (1/2 cup)
- Rigatoni pasta (12 ounces)
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- Parsley (fresh, chopped for garnish)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper for better flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Boil the Rigatoni
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add the drained rigatoni along with reserved pasta water, more butter, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
Step 5: Slice the Chicken
After resting, slice the chicken breasts into strips.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Plate the rigatoni, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes, including both chicken and pasta preparation.
Substitutions
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option, and feel free to use gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
Storage Instructions
Leftover garlic butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
Exploring Pasta Varieties
Rigatoni is a great pasta choice for this recipe, but don’t hesitate to try other shapes like penne or fusilli. Each variety offers a different texture and sauce-holding capability, which can change the dish’s overall experience.
Pairing Suggestions
This garlic butter chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or sautéed vegetables to balance out the richness of the sauce. Consider adding a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
For those looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or a splash of lemon juice for a bright contrast to the garlic and butter. These additions can enhance the flavor and make the meal more vibrant.

Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken in a hot skillet creates a beautiful golden crust, sealing in the juices and enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Deglazing
After searing the chicken, deglazing the pan with broth helps lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, enriching your sauce with depth and complexity.
Emulsifying Butter
Incorporating butter gradually into the sauce while whisking helps create a creamy texture, blending the flavors seamlessly.
Pasta Cooking Method
Cooking rigatoni until al dente ensures the pasta retains its bite and complements the tender chicken perfectly.
FAQ
Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?
Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with other pasta types such as penne or fusilli.
Is it possible to make this dish with boneless chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can add extra flavor and tenderness to the dish.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Certainly! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Serve the garlic butter chicken over a bed of rigatoni, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for a pop of color. Consider adding a side of garlic bread for an extra touch. Pair the dish with a light salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal that is visually appealing and delicious.
Conclusion
This garlic butter chicken with rigatoni and Parmesan is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings comfort to the table. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the soul. As you gather around to enjoy this delightful recipe, remember the joy of sharing delicious moments with loved ones. We’d love to hear how your version turned out or any special twists you’ve added! What’s your favorite way to enjoy this dish?

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Discover the ultimate comfort dish with our mouthwatering Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan recipe. This savory pasta meal combines tender chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce tossed with al dente rigatoni and topped with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Dive into this delightful Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan recipe and experience a burst of flavors in every bite. Click now to explore the full recipe and bring restaurant-quality cuisine to your home kitchen tonight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts, cubed
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– ½ cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ cup chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1 Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper for better flavor.
Step 2 Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet, cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3 Boil the Rigatoni
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
Step 4 Combine Ingredients
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add the drained rigatoni along with reserved pasta water, more butter, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
Step 5 Slice the Chicken
After resting, slice the chicken breasts into strips.
Step 6 Serve the Dish
Plate the rigatoni, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy your meal.
Notes
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes including both chicken and pasta preparation
Substitutions
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option, and feel free to use gluten free pasta if you prefer
Storage Instructions
Leftover garlic butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving
Keywords: Garlic Butter Chicken