Decadent Rigatoni Tossed with Juicy Chicken in a Luscious Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce
Introduction:
If you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal, this Decadent Rigatoni with Juicy Chicken in a Luscious Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is exactly what you need! Perfectly cooked rigatoni is coated in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce, paired with tender chicken for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings the perfect balance of flavors and textures to your table.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the rigatoni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let it rest before slicing into strips.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, stirring well, then mix in the Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer until creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
- Combine Everything: Toss the cooked rigatoni and sliced chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a rich, indulgent meal.
Mistakes to Avoid:
Overcooking the Chicken – Cook until just done to keep it tender and juicy. Overcooked chicken becomes dry.
Skipping Pasta Water – This helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling better to the pasta.
Browning Garlic Too Much – Garlic burns quickly and can make the sauce bitter. Sauté it lightly.
Adding Cheese Too Fast – Parmesan should be added gradually to avoid clumping.
Not Seasoning Properly – Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
FAQ:
Can I use a different pasta? Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well.
Can I substitute heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter, but the sauce may be less rich.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream.
Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would be great additions.
Is this dish spicy? No, but you can add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Conclusion:
This Decadent Rigatoni with Juicy Chicken in a Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor! It’s easy to make yet impressive enough for guests. Serve it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for the ultimate comforting meal. Try it tonight and enjoy a homemade pasta dish that rivals your favorite restaurant!