Creamy, savory, and packed with irresistible garlic butter flavor, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is comfort food at its finest. Tender chicken bites are seared to perfection, then tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni in a silky garlic-butter-Parmesan sauce that clings to every pasta ridge. The result? A dish that feels indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

This recipe is all about balance: the richness of the butter and cheese is lifted by the savory depth of garlic, while the rigatoni provides a hearty base to soak up every drop of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.

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

Comfort in a bowl: Creamy pasta and juicy chicken are the ultimate pairing.
Simple yet elevated: A short ingredient list, but the flavors are rich and complex.
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings.
Customizable: Easily add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust spice levels.
Crowd-pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, gather the right tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For browning the chicken and tossing everything together without overcrowding.
Pasta Pot: A deep pot ensures the rigatoni cooks evenly without sticking.
Colander: To drain pasta while reserving some cooking water for the sauce.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Ensures even, quick cutting of chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Microplane or Fine Grater: Perfect for finely grating fresh Parmesan for maximum meltability.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Chicken Breast or Thighs: The star protein; tender and juicy when seared.
Rigatoni Pasta: Its ridges and tube shape hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Unsalted Butter: The base for the rich garlic flavor.
Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced for a bold, aromatic punch.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty creaminess to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious, velvety coating.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken to a golden finish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to balance flavors.
Fresh Parsley: For a burst of color and freshness.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the butter and garlic. Lower the heat, then add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted into a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked rigatoni and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy every bite.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Serve this dish immediately for the best flavor and texture, paired with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, farfalle, or fusilli all work well with this sauce.

Can I make this without cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes fresher, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms make great additions.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan, you might enjoy these other favorites:

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a sweet-spicy cheesy twist.
One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta if you crave bold, smoky flavors.
Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet for a zesty seafood variation.
Pepper Parmesan Chicken Penne for a peppery, cheesy kick.
Texas Roadhouse Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet for restaurant-style indulgence at home.

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I’d love to know how yours turns out. Did you stick to the classic version or add your own twist? Share your tips and results—let’s make pasta nights even better together!

For more delicious recipes, visit my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate.