Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni

Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is a delicious and creamy pasta dish that everyone will love. It’s simple to prepare and packs a ton of flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The combination of tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a comforting meal that satisfies your cravings.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
12 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Boil rigatoni in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the rigatoni and toss until evenly coated in the sauce. Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni

Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni hot, garnished with chopped parsley. You can add extra Parmesan on top for an even cheesier dish. This pasta pairs nicely with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni

To store leftovers, place the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni

Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often lacks the same richness.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas to the dish for extra color and nutrition.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or use a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and mix them with the cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. The sauce and chicken remain the same.

3. Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.