This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is the ultimate comfort meal. Tender, golden-browned chicken bites are coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni. Every bite is packed with a savory depth, enhanced by a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs. The creamy, buttery sauce clings to the pasta, creating a dish that’s indulgent yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Whether you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal for the family or a crowd-pleasing dinner for guests, this dish delivers. The balance of flavors—garlic, butter, Parmesan, and perfectly seared chicken—makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s simple to customize with additional veggies or spices, making it a versatile recipe that never gets boring.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Rich and Flavorful – The garlic butter sauce infuses every bite with a deep, savory taste.
Easy to Make – Requires only a handful of ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Family-Friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will love.
Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Customizable – Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Each piece of equipment plays a key role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Large Pot – Needed for boiling the rigatoni to al dente perfection. A well-salted pot of boiling water ensures flavorful pasta.
Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet is perfect for searing the chicken and creating a rich garlic butter sauce.
Tongs or Wooden Spoon – Helps in tossing the chicken and pasta evenly in the sauce.
Fine Mesh Strainer or Colander – Drains the pasta efficiently, ensuring it doesn’t become waterlogged.
Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing fresh garlic.
Microplane or Box Grater – Freshly grated Parmesan melts better into the dish, enhancing its creaminess.

Having these tools ready will make cooking smooth and efficient, ensuring a well-balanced and flavorful meal.

Preparation Tips

Prep Ahead – Cut the chicken into even-sized pieces before cooking to ensure uniform cooking. Mince the garlic in advance for a smoother cooking process.
Season the Chicken Well – A mix of salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika or Italian seasoning enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Cook Pasta Al Dente – Undercooking the pasta slightly (about 1 minute less than package instructions) ensures it doesn’t become mushy when tossed with the sauce.
Save Some Pasta Water – Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. It helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the rigatoni.
Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives a deeper, more aromatic flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook chicken in a single layer to get a golden, crispy sear instead of steaming it.

Following these tips will help you achieve a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

For a flavorful and well-balanced dish, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color and flavor)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta:

12 ounces rigatoni pasta
4 cups water (or enough to boil the pasta)
1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle heat)
½ cup heavy cream (for a creamy touch)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

This ingredient list ensures a balance of rich, garlicky flavors with a creamy, buttery finish, making every bite irresistible.

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked rigatoni and chicken to the skillet. Add the grated Parmesan and reserved pasta water gradually, stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta evenly. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts more smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Adjust the spice level – If you like extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Substitutions – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. You can also use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for juicier bites.
Make it extra creamy – Stir in a bit of cream cheese or more butter for a richer sauce.
Boost the flavor – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the dish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the pasta – Rigatoni should be al dente to hold its shape and absorb the sauce well.
Not reserving pasta water – This starchy water helps thicken the sauce and bind everything together.
Overcrowding the skillet – Cooking the chicken in a crowded pan will cause it to steam instead of sear, reducing flavor and texture.
Burning the garlic – Garlic cooks quickly; sauté it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
Adding too much sauce at once – Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually to control the consistency of the sauce.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its rich and savory flavors.

8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect way to soak up the extra sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add freshness to balance the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers bring a light, caramelized flavor that complements the dish.

4. Steamed Broccoli

A simple and healthy side that adds a pop of green while balancing out the creamy sauce.

5. Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing contrast.

6. Sautéed Spinach

Quickly cooked with garlic and olive oil, spinach adds a nutritious and flavorful touch.

7. Minestrone Soup

A warm, hearty soup with beans, vegetables, and pasta makes a great starter for this dish.

8. A Glass of White Wine

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay enhances the garlic butter flavors beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.
Freezing: While pasta dishes with cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and make a quick sauce.
Reheating Tips: Avoid microwaving at high heat, as it can dry out the chicken. Instead, reheat over low heat on the stove with a little butter or reserved pasta water.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: ~38g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fats: ~22g
Saturated Fat: ~10g
Cholesterol: ~95mg
Sodium: ~500mg
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~3g

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work well in this dish. Just ensure you cook the pasta al dente so it holds up in the sauce.

2. How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce the butter slightly, and swap out some of the pasta for steamed veggies like zucchini or spinach.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and store it separately from the pasta and sauce. When ready to eat, reheat everything together with a splash of pasta water or broth.

4. What protein alternatives can I use?

Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu can be used instead of chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

5. How can I make it spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

6. What type of Parmesan is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) melts better and has a stronger flavor than pre-shredded versions.

7. Can I make this without dairy?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

8. What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

Add small amounts of reserved pasta water or broth to thin it out while stirring.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s packed with rich flavors and creamy textures. With easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and make-ahead options, it’s a go-to dish for busy weeknights or special occasions. Pair it with your favorite side and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal that everyone will love!