Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce 🧈🍗🍝

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food! Tender chicken, al dente rigatoni, and a rich, velvety sauce made with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese come together to create a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) Rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tbsp Salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 1 cup Chicken broth
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken:

  1. Season the chicken slices with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Everything:

  1. Add the cooked rigatoni and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.

5. Serve:

  1. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  1. Thinly Slice Chicken: Thin slices cook faster and stay tender.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta water before draining. Use it to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  3. Freshly Grated Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
  4. Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
  5. Double the Recipe: This dish reheats well, so make extra for leftovers!

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 700-750 kcal
  • Fat: 35-40g
  • Protein: 40-45g
  • Carbohydrates: 55-60g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugar: 3-4g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Embracing Comfort Food

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, garlicky sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta make it a dish that’s both luxurious and comforting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Enjoy! 🧈🍗🍝✨

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