If you are looking for a dish that elegantly combines rich flavors with comforting textures, the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. This dish serves up tender steak bites infused with garlicky butter, paired with exquisitely creamy mashed potatoes that feel like a warm hug on your plate. Every bite delivers a symphony of savory goodness, balanced perfectly by the freshness of parsley and chives. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a cozy meal at home, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to recreate again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish both easy and flavorful. Each element plays a vital role, from the savory garlic butter that coats the steak bites to the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes that complete the meal.
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes: Choose a tender cut for the juiciest, most flavorful protein.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing the steak and adding richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides that signature aromatic garlic punch.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Melts into a luscious sauce that coats the steak beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances every other flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Perfect for creating smooth, fluffy mashed potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons butter: For richness and creaminess in the mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk: Make your potatoes silky smooth and luscious.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the potatoes perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor): Infuses the mashed potatoes with subtle garlic warmth.
- 1/4 cup chopped chives (optional garnish): Adds a mild oniony flavor and a bright green accent to the final dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Steak Bites
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan warms up, season the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, sear the steak bites for 2 to 3 minutes, turning them to ensure even browning on all sides. This creates a flavorful crust that locks in juices. When they’re beautifully browned and crispy, remove the steak bites and set them aside to rest.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and immediately add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the fragrant aroma fills your kitchen—this little step elevates the flavor dramatically. Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Let them cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to absorb all the savory goodness. If you like, sprinkle chopped parsley now to brighten the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes for Mash
While the steak is resting in the skillet, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water. This takes about 15 to 20 minutes or until a fork easily slides through. This ensures the potatoes are tender enough to mash into creamy perfection. Once done, drain them thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes to Creamy Perfection
Return the drained potatoes to the pot and add butter, heavy cream or milk, and the optional minced garlic for an extra flavor boost. Mash everything together until the texture is velvety smooth and rich. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, toss in chopped chives for a slight onion hint and fresh color.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches make all the difference. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or vibrant chives over the plated steak and mashed potatoes adds a burst of color and subtle freshness that contrasts perfectly with the creamy textures and rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this dish with a crisp green salad or lightly steamed seasonal veggies to add a refreshing crunch and balance the richness. A glass of chilled white wine or your favorite sparkling water with a slice of lemon can also enhance the dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the creamy garlic butter chicken bites on a bed of mashed potatoes arranged neatly in the center of the plate. Drizzle any leftover butter sauce over the top to keep it luscious. You can also add a few roasted cherry tomatoes or a wedge of lemon for visual and flavor contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any remaining Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day meals.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to enjoy it later. Store it in a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. For best quality, consume within 2 months. Note that mashed potatoes might slightly change texture after freezing but will still taste delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce and potatoes warm evenly. If needed, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy consistency when reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of steak in this recipe?
Absolutely! While steak provides a rich flavor and hearty texture, tender chicken breast or thighs can be swapped in and will still soak up that garlic butter sauce beautifully for a lighter alternative.
What can I use if I don’t have russet potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are a great substitute as they mash easily and yield a creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes as they may result in a gluey mash.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, and use coconut cream or your preferred plant-based milk instead of heavy cream. This will still deliver richness and flavor.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can boil and mash the potatoes in advance, then reheat them when ready to serve. However, it’s best to prepare the steak bites fresh to keep them tender and delicious.
How do I get the steak bites extra crispy?
Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents crisping, so cook in batches if needed.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe that makes every meal feel like a celebration. The balance of bold flavors and creamy textures invites you to slow down and savor each bite. I can’t recommend enough that you give this recipe a try—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce recipe features tender sirloin or ribeye steak bites seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, smooth mashed potatoes infused with garlic and garnished with fresh herbs. A comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped chives (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Prepare Steak Bites: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to ensure a hot surface for searing the steak cubes, which helps develop a flavorful crust.
- Season the Steak: Season the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors before cooking.
- Sear Steak Bites: Add the steak bites to the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes, turning to cook all sides until they are browned and crispy. Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic in Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the butter with garlic flavor.
- Toss Steak in Garlic Butter: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the steak to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish Steak Bites: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, adding brightness and freshness. Set the steak bites aside while preparing the mashed potatoes.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender, which ensures they will mash smoothly.
- Drain and Prepare Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot to prepare for mashing.
- Add Cream and Butter: Add butter, heavy cream or milk, and minced garlic (if using) to the potatoes. Mash thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, achieving the perfect mashed potato consistency.
- Season and Garnish Mashed Potatoes: Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with chopped chives if desired to add a subtle onion flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter mashed potato option.
- Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but you may use garlic powder if needed.
- Letting the steak rest after searing helps retain juiciness.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for the creamiest mashed potatoes.
- Fresh herbs like parsley and chives elevate the dish with a fresh touch.
