Description

This garlic butter chicken pasta is pure comfort on a plate—tender, golden-seared chicken tossed with rigatoni in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. The richness of butter and cream, sharpness of Parmesan, and that little garlicky kick make this dish an unforgettable favorite. Whether you’re looking for new dinner ideas or just an easy recipe that satisfies, this creamy rigatoni pasta brings flavor and warmth in every bite.

Ingredients

1 lb rigatoni pasta

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in skillet with 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Lower heat to medium. Add remaining butter and a drizzle of oil. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1-2 mins.
Add chicken broth, deglaze pan, then pour in cream. Simmer 3-4 mins. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
Return chicken and pasta to pan. Toss gently. Add pasta water if needed. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner