Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is a dish that wraps you in a warm, cheesy hug. Picture this: tender rigatoni pasta drenched in a rich, creamy garlic sauce, with juicy chicken pieces playing peek-a-boo among the noodles. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a tempting siren’s song, making it impossible to resist.
Now, if you’re anything like me, the first time you tried something like this was probably at a friend’s dinner party where everyone pretended they were food critics. You remember the laughter and the clinking of forks on plates as people devoured this delightful masterpiece. Moments like these remind us that food can be more than just a meal; it becomes an experience we cherish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is incredibly easy to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes
- The rich flavor profile combines creamy cheese and aromatic garlic for a crowd-pleasing dish
- With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, this pasta dish looks stunning on any table
- It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike
Sharing my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni with friends turned into an unforgettable evening filled with compliments and requests for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch recipes recipe.
- Rigatoni Pasta: Choose al dente rigatoni for the best texture; it holds onto sauce beautifully.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; fresh garlic elevates the dish immensely.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for better melting and flavor; avoid pre-grated cheese if possible.
- Heavy Cream: Use full-fat cream for a luscious sauce that sticks to the pasta perfectly.
- Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of your dish.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; chop finely for even distribution.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown and cooked through.
Add Garlic and Cream: Once chicken is done, lower heat and add minced garlic to sauté just until fragrant—about 1 minute—before pouring in heavy cream.
Incorporate Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese gradually until melted into a smooth sauce that coats everything nicely.
Toss Everything Together: Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss gently until every piece of pasta is lovingly covered in that creamy goodness.
Garnish and Serve!: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving warm. Watch everyone’s faces light up as they dig into this delightful creation!
Now that you’ve mastered this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni recipe, get ready for compliments galore! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is a creamy, savory delight that’s perfect for busy weeknights
- The aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen will make everyone eager to eat
- It’s an easy dish that feels gourmet while still being simple enough for any cook to master
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the rigatoni in the same pot while preparing the creamy garlic sauce to maximize flavor and minimize cleanup.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different pasta types like fettuccine or penne, or throw in veggies such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it melts better and enhances flavor
- Cooking pasta al dente gives it the perfect bite and holds up in the sauce
- Don’t skip resting your chicken after cooking; it locks in more juices for a succulent result
I once made Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni for a dinner party, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even fought over the leftovers, which is always a good sign. For more inspiration, check out this quick dinner ideas recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni?
Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Consider adding sautéed zucchini or broccoli to boost its nutritional value without losing flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish that transforms a simple meal into a culinary delight. With tender rigatoni enveloped in a luscious garlic sauce and juicy chicken pieces, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can create a visually stunning dish that will have your guests asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add rigatoni, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown and cooked through (about 7–10 minutes).
- Add garlic and cream: Lower the heat, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream.
- Incorporate cheese: Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Toss everything together: Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 105mg