Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce – Easy & Delicious
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a rich, creamy pasta dish that brings comfort in every bite. If you’re craving a meal that feels indulgent but is still easy to make at home, Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is exactly what you need. This dish blends perfectly seared chicken, al dente rigatoni, and a velvety Parmesan sauce infused with butter and garlic for an irresistibly decadent experience.
Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this recipe delivers a balance of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. The garlic butter sauce coats every bite of pasta and chicken, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet flavorful or for special occasions when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish isn’t just about indulgence—it’s also highly versatile. You can tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs, add your favorite vegetables, or swap out the protein for a different variation. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for an easy win, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love creamy, comforting pasta dishes, this one is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:
- Incredible Flavor in Every Bite – The rich garlic butter sauce coats the tender chicken and pasta perfectly, while Parmesan adds a deliciously cheesy finish.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home – You don’t need to spend a fortune on takeout when you can make a dish that’s just as good—if not better—right in your own kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients, Amazing Results – This dish is made with everyday ingredients, but the combination creates something truly special.
- Easily Customizable – Whether you want to switch up the protein, add veggies, or adjust the spice level, you can tweak this recipe to suit your taste.
- The Ultimate Comfort Food – Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this pasta is the perfect meal for a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
If you need to make swaps, here are some easy substitutions:
- Rigatoni Pasta – The ridges help hold onto the sauce, making each bite flavorful. Penne, fettuccine, or bowtie pasta will also work.
- Chicken Breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breast is classic, but chicken thighs add extra juiciness. Want something different? Try shrimp or mushrooms.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is best, but if you don’t have any, garlic powder (about ½ teaspoon per clove) works in a pinch.
- Heavy Cream & Whole Milk – These create a rich, silky sauce. For a lighter version, use half-and-half, or go all-in with just heavy cream for extra indulgence.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts best, but Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but a pinch adds a nice bit of heat. If you prefer a milder dish, you can leave it out.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water).
- Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente—don’t overcook, as it will continue to soften in the sauce.
- Before draining, save ½ cup of the pasta water to help adjust the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Reduce the heat and add more butter and garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan
- Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring to keep the sauce smooth.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken and cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing everything together until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors, then garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Season at Every Step – From the pasta water to the chicken, seasoning throughout enhances the final dish.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded Parmesan has additives that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated is always best.
- Cook Pasta Just Until Al Dente – Since it will absorb some sauce, slightly undercooking it keeps the texture perfect.
- Let the Chicken Rest – Giving the chicken a few minutes to sit after cooking keeps it juicy when added back to the dish.
Ways to Customize This Recipe
- Make It Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Vegetarian Option – Replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Low-Carb Version – Swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.
- Protein Variations – Try shrimp, Italian sausage, or crispy bacon for a different twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
- Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The sauce will thicken as it sits, but it can easily be adjusted when reheated.
Reheating
- On the Stove: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- In the Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
What to Serve with This Dish
While this pasta is satisfying on its own, here are some great pairings:
- Garlic Bread – Because more garlic and butter is always a good idea.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy salad complements the rich, creamy pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli or Roasted Asparagus – Adds freshness and color to your plate.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make a rich, flavorful, restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress.
Now it’s your turn to try it out! Whether you stick to the recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is sure to be a hit. Let us know how it turned out and what variations you tried!
A rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender garlic butter chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a luscious Parmesan sauce that brings everything together. This comforting meal is easy enough for a weeknight lunch yet impressive enough for special occasions.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Cook the Rigatoni to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. For the best flavor, add about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water—this ensures that the pasta is well-seasoned from the inside out.
Once boiling, drop in the rigatoni and cook just until al dente, following the time listed on the package (typically 10-12 minutes). You want the pasta firm but tender so it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Before draining, don’t forget to save about ½ cup of the pasta water! This simple step helps adjust the sauce’s consistency later if needed. Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to keep it from sticking together. Set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
While the pasta is cooking, let’s get the chicken ready.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using a paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully rather than steam.
- Cut into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces) for even cooking.
- Season generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning for a flavorful bite in every piece.
- Sear the Chicken for a Golden, Juicy Finish
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. The combination of butter and oil ensures a rich flavor while preventing the butter from burning.
Once the butter starts to sizzle, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes so they develop a golden-brown crust. Then, flip and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly crispy on the outside.
Transfer to a plate and set aside. Don’t wipe the skillet—you’ll use those flavorful pan drippings for the sauce!
- Create the Rich Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add another tablespoon of butter. Once melted, stir in freshly minced garlic and cook for 30-40 seconds until fragrant. Keep stirring to prevent burning—garlic burns fast!
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Now, slowly pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly to combine everything smoothly. Bring it to a gentle simmer (not a boil) to allow the flavors to blend.
Next, gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese in small batches. This prevents clumps and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. If it becomes too thick, simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
For a little extra heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Bring Everything Together
Now, return the cooked chicken (and any juices on the plate) back into the skillet. Stir well so every piece gets coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce.
Add in the drained rigatoni, tossing everything together so the pasta absorbs the creamy goodness. Let it simmer on low heat for 1-2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Final Touches & Serving
Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Want more cheesiness? Add another sprinkle of Parmesan. Need more depth? A touch more black pepper or a pinch of salt will do the trick.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, then serve immediately while it’s hot. Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Want a Thicker Sauce?
If your sauce is a little too thin, simply let it simmer for a few extra minutes. Alternatively, you can mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 teaspoons water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it up instantly.
Looking for a Lighter Version?
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk to reduce the richness.
- Use grilled chicken instead of pan-fried for a leaner alternative.
No Rigatoni? No Problem!
While rigatoni is ideal because its ridges hold the sauce beautifully, you can substitute:
- Penne – Similar shape but slightly smoother texture.
- Fettuccine – Great for a more Alfredo-style dish.
- Rotini or Farfalle – If you want a different pasta shape for fun presentation.
Want More Spice?
Kick up the heat by adding:
- Extra red pepper flakes
- A dash of cayenne pepper
- A few dashes of hot sauce for an extra punch.
Boost the Nutrition with Veggies
If you’d like to sneak in some extra nutrients, try adding:
- Sautéed mushrooms – Adds an earthy depth to the dish.
- Spinach or kale – Stir in at the very end for a nutritious boost.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a tangy, umami-packed twist.
Thank you for your support! We truly appreciate your time and effort. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Have a wonderful day!