Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds sing. Imagine succulent chicken bathed in rich garlic butter, perfectly paired with al dente rigatoni, and topped off with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of family dinners and laughter-filled gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress your date or simply want a comforting weeknight dinner, Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is the answer. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have you dreaming about seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory garlic butter with tender chicken and creamy parmesan
- The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing and inviting on any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a comforting family meal or a fancy dinner party centerpiece
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: Around 3-4 breasts are ideal for this recipe; adjust based on how many you’re serving.
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Fresh Garlic: Use about 4-5 cloves for a robust flavor; fresh garlic makes all the difference.
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Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape holds sauce beautifully; cook until al dente for the best texture.
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Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the dish; it adds creaminess without overpowering flavors.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese elevates the dish’s flavor; use high-quality parmesan for the best results.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle helps in searing the chicken perfectly while adding richness.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every component of this recipe.
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
Before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients. Chop the garlic finely and grate the parmesan cheese so everything is ready when you need it.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your rigatoni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then carefully place them in the skillet. Sear each side until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes per side).
Step 4: Add Garlic Butter
Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce heat to low and add butter along with minced garlic to the skillet. Let it melt while continuously basting the chicken for about two minutes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing everything together so that pasta absorbs that garlicky goodness from the butter sauce.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Transfer your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni onto plates or a large serving platter. Generously sprinkle parmesan on top just before serving for that extra touch.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful delight!
You Must Know
- This delightful Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan combines rich flavors that make every bite unforgettable
- The creamy sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, bringing warmth and comfort to your dinner table
- Ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions, it’s a dish everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, boil the rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Prepare the garlic butter sauce simultaneously for maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist or swap out rigatoni for penne. Fresh herbs like basil or spinach can also elevate your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your chicken generously before cooking to enhance its flavor
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best taste
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it helps retain moisture and tenderness
It was a chilly evening when I first made Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for my friends. Their delighted reactions still bring a smile to my face, especially when one friend declared it “better than takeout!”
FAQs:
What is Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delicious pasta dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. The rigatoni pasta absorbs the flavors beautifully, creating a comforting meal. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this dish combines savory and creamy elements for a satisfying dining experience. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions, appealing to both adults and children alike. For more inspiration, check out this delicious main dish recipes recipe.
How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni?
To make Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni, start by cooking the rigatoni according to package instructions. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown. Combine the cooked rigatoni with the chicken, adding more butter if desired, along with salt, pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan. Stir well to coat everything in the delicious garlic butter sauce before serving.
Can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni?
Absolutely! You can easily customize Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni by adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor. For added spice, consider including red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley. You can also substitute chicken for shrimp or use gluten-free pasta if needed. These adjustments can enhance the dish while keeping it delicious and enjoyable.
How can I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Chicken?
To store leftovers of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through. If you find it too dry after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or extra garlic butter for moisture.
Conclusion for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan:
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is an easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With simple ingredients like garlic, butter, chicken, and pasta, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. Whether you prepare it for family dinners or gatherings with friends, its creamy texture and savory taste will impress everyone. Enjoy customizing this recipe to suit your preferences while savoring its delightful essence!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce with al dente rigatoni pasta. Topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, this meal is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for impressing family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping garlic and grating parmesan.
- Cook rigatoni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to low, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Baste chicken until the butter melts (about 2 minutes).
- Toss in the cooked rigatoni to combine everything thoroughly.
- Serve on plates or a platter, topped with parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
