Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni: Prepare to be utterly captivated by this creamy, dreamy pasta dish that’s about to become your new weeknight obsession! Imagine tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, clinging to perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

While pasta dishes have ancient roots, evolving from simple noodles to the complex and varied forms we know today, the beauty of Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni lies in its modern adaptability. It’s a testament to how classic flavors can be reimagined and elevated with ease. This isn’t your grandmother’s Sunday gravy, but it’s just as comforting and satisfying.

People adore this dish for its incredible flavor profile. The garlic butter sauce is rich and savory, perfectly complementing the mildness of the chicken and the satisfying chewiness of the rigatoni. It’s also incredibly convenient. This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Get ready to experience pasta perfection!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Rigatoni:
• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• Water for boiling
• Salt for pasta water
• Optional Add-ins:
• 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This will give it a fantastic flavor when we cook it.
2. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. We’ll add it back to the sauce later.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1. Now, for the star of the show – the garlic butter sauce! In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (don’t worry about cleaning it, those browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Stir constantly to prevent burning. The aroma should be amazing at this point!
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This will also help to slightly reduce the broth, thickening the sauce a bit.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The sauce should be rich and decadent.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and lemon juice. The parsley adds a pop of freshness, and the lemon juice brightens up the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings as needed.
6. If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms, add them to the sauce now and cook for a few minutes until they are heated through and softened slightly.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. If you’re using spinach, add it to the skillet in the last minute or two of cooking. Stir until the spinach is wilted.

Cooking the Rigatoni:

1. While the chicken and sauce are simmering, cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package directions. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water. This seasons the pasta as it cooks.
2. Add the rigatoni pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but check the package directions for specific cooking times.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. The pasta water is starchy and can be used to help thicken the sauce if needed.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Add the drained rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the chicken and garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
2. Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni immediately. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the savory aroma of garlic sizzling in butter to the perfectly cooked rigatoni coated in a creamy, decadent sauce, every bite is a testament to its deliciousness. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and rich butter creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would all be fantastic additions. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a splash of chicken broth. And for those who prefer a cheesier experience, a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano right before serving is always a welcome addition. Serving Suggestions: This Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce, is another excellent choice. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even serve it with roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini. For a complete meal, consider adding a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the dish. Variations to Explore: Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on this recipe! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. For a richer, more decadent sauce, try adding a dollop of mascarpone cheese or crème fraîche. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to speed up the process. And for those who love a little bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes will add a fiery kick. I’m so confident that you’ll love this Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni that I urge you to give it a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. I’m incredibly excited for you to experience the joy of making and enjoying this dish. Once you’ve had a chance to whip up your own version of this Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, tips, and variations in the comments below. Let me know what you loved about it, what you changed, and how you made it your own. Your feedback is invaluable and helps inspire others to try this delicious recipe. Happy cooking! Print