Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine succulent chicken swimming in a sea of rich, buttery goodness, clinging to every piece of golden rigatoni. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a gourmet chef, even if your culinary skills are limited to boiling water.
This dish brings back memories of cozy family dinners where laughter and the clinking of forks filled the air. It’s perfect for any occasion—be it a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Each bite promises an explosion of flavor, leaving you craving more long after the last noodle has disappeared.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is simple to prepare, ensuring you won’t spend all day in the kitchen
- The flavor profile is rich and savory, making it irresistible to both kids and adults alike
- The visual appeal is stunning, with golden chicken nestled among perfectly cooked pasta
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family meal or an elegant dinner party
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a hearty meal; adjust according to your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; their robust flavor makes all the difference.
Rigatoni Pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto sauce like nobody’s business; it’s perfect for our creamy garlic butter sauce.
Unsalted Butter: Opt for unsalted to control the saltiness in this dish; butter adds richness that pairs beautifully with garlic.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese elevates this dish; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; it’s like confetti on your pasta!
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: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the garlic finely so it releases its aromatic magic when cooked. Set aside some grated Parmesan for garnishing later.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Once it’s bubbling away like a hot spring, toss in the rigatoni and cook until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain it well but reserve some pasta water—it’s liquid gold!
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of your butter (yes, please!). Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a moment (it deserves it!). In that same skillet, add remaining butter and chopped garlic. Sauté until fragrant—just until your kitchen smells divine but don’t burn it! You want to create that luscious garlic butter sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Slice up your chicken into bite-sized pieces—don’t forget to admire how pretty they look! Add them back into the skillet along with freshly cooked rigatoni. Pour in some reserved pasta water as needed to help everything mix together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer everything onto plates or into bowls—you want those drizzling buttery pools showing off! Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for that perfect touch.
Now sit back and watch as everyone dives into their bowls like they’ve never seen food before—because trust me, they haven’t! Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan while soaking in all those compliments!
You Must Know
- This creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser
- You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your pantry staples
- It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing warmth and flavor to your table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken in garlic butter first to lock in those flavors, then cook the rigatoni while you whip up a rich sauce. Multitasking is key here—just don’t attempt to dance while stirring.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the rigatoni for penne or farfalle if that’s what you have. Experiment with additional spices like Italian seasoning or toss in some spinach for extra nutrients.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality chicken breasts for a juicier result and melt-in-your-mouth experience
- Always salt your pasta water; it enhances flavor significantly
- Don’t rush the garlic; let it sauté until golden for maximum flavor depth
It was one of those evenings when I whipped up Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, and my friend declared it “life-changing.” Who knew buttery goodness could spark such joy?
FAQs:
What is Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delicious dish that features tender chicken pieces sautéed in rich garlic butter. The chicken is then tossed with rigatoni pasta, creating a flavorful meal. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this dish provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make and ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
To prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, start by cooking the rigatoni according to package instructions. In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic before adding bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown, then combine the chicken with drained pasta. Lastly, stir in grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. Serve hot for a delightful meal. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and techniques recipe.
Can I customize the Garlic Butter Chicken recipe?
Yes, you can customize your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan to suit your taste. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. You can also adjust the amount of garlic to your liking or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options while maintaining the same delicious flavors.
What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken?
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan pairs wonderfully with various sides. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch, while garlic bread complements the dish perfectly. Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, provide a healthy contrast to the richness of the pasta. These sides enhance the overall dining experience without overpowering the main dish. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.
Conclusion for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:
In conclusion, Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an easy-to-make yet impressive dish suitable for various occasions. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful garlic butter, and hearty rigatoni creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and quick preparation steps, this recipe becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it warm for maximum flavor!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a decadent yet simple dish that combines juicy chicken breast with al dente rigatoni, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. This delightful recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings, offering an explosion of flavors that will leave your family and friends asking for more. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can create a gourmet meal in no time.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Gather and prepare all ingredients, chopping the garlic finely.
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water for 10-12 minutes until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt half the butter over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the skillet along with cooked rigatoni. Mix gently, adding reserved pasta water as necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
