If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe. This dish brings together tender, perfectly seared chicken and a luscious, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to al dente rigatoni pasta. Every bite is packed with rich garlic and Parmesan flavors, balanced by the smooth creaminess of the sauce, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the savory chicken to the creamy sauce and fresh parsley, these simple components come together effortlessly to create something truly special.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy chicken forms the hearty base of this dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden brown crust.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with a beautiful, aromatic depth.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs adding warmth and a classic Mediterranean touch.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory richness and helps build the sauce.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Melts into the sauce, delivering an irresistible cheesy goodness.
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta: The perfect tube-shaped pasta to hold onto every bit of that creamy sauce.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté garlic gently.
- Fresh parsley: Provides a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor at the end.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Rigatoni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta until it is al dente—meaning it’s tender but still has a slight bite in the center. This perfect texture allows the pasta to stand up nicely to the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, so we can focus on the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil warms, season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and that fragrant Italian seasoning. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. This golden crust locks in flavors and juices. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to cool slightly, and then slice it into beautiful strips ready to be added back later.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until your kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits left behind by the chicken. Let this simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously as the sauce thickens, preparing the perfect silky base. Finally, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and watch it melt into a rich, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every noodle.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken with the Sauce
Now, add the cooked rigatoni directly into the skillet with your creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss it gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece is coated in that cheesy, garlicky goodness. Then, place the sliced chicken strips on top and toss again to combine everything. This step makes sure that every forkful offers the perfect balance of tender chicken and rich sauce-coated pasta.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright splash of color and fresh flavor. Serve this dish warm, and get ready to hear all the “mmms” and “yums” from your happy guests.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds more than just vibrant color; it introduces a subtle herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan right before serving—it adds a lovely finishing texture and flavor boost that anyone who loves cheese will appreciate.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to provide acidity and balance. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli work wonderfully, too, offering a fresh contrast to the creamy plate in the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this dish in shallow bowls helps keep the sauce beautifully pooled for dipping. You can also place the sliced chicken atop the pasta for a visually stunning presentation, then garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge on the side to add a little brightness when served. For a dinner party, individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets offer a rustic, charming touch that will impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe keep really well in the refrigerator. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and store for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal that tastes just as fantastic.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, store it in a freezer-safe container and keep for up to two months. To preserve the texture best, consider freezing the chicken and pasta separately if possible, then combining them after reheating. This method helps retain the perfect creaminess without the pasta becoming too soft.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir often to prevent sticking and to maintain that signature creamy texture. You can also microwave leftovers covered, stirring halfway through to get an even heat distribution.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, other tube-shaped or ridged pastas like penne or ziti work just as well. They’ll still catch that luscious Garlic Parmesan sauce beautifully.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, and use less butter. You can also reduce the Parmesan slightly, though the cheese is key for that signature flavor. Adding more fresh herbs and vegetables can help balance the richness, too.
Can I cook this recipe without Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan really enhances the flavor and creaminess, so it’s highly recommended. However, if you’re out or need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses can work. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy note, but it won’t melt the same way.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook the chicken breasts until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The meat should be opaque with no pink inside. Cooking times can vary based on thickness, so using a meat thermometer helps you nail it every time.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance and refrigerate them separately. The sauce is best made fresh but can be prepped a few hours ahead and gently reheated. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe the Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like homemade comfort food elevated with just the right touch of indulgence. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. If you haven’t tried this delightful dish yet, grab those ingredients and dive in—you won’t regret it!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta is a delicious and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts paired with rigatoni pasta tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines simple ingredients like garlic, Italian seasoning, and heavy cream for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Slice the chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it cool slightly, then slice into strips for easier serving.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, mixing continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Toss pasta and chicken in sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Place the sliced chicken on top and toss again until everything is combined and evenly coated.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the dish warm for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich.
- You can swap rigatoni with penne or any pasta of choice.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
