Zesty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe That Wows

Creamy, cheesy comfort calls to pasta enthusiasts seeking a delightful garlic parmesan chicken rigatoni recipe that satisfies every craving.

Tender chicken pieces nestle perfectly among al dente rigatoni noodles, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

parmesan cheese melts luxuriously throughout the dish, adding a rich, savory dimension.

Each forkful promises a delectable combination of herbs, garlic, and perfectly seasoned protein.

The recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that feels both elegant and homey.

Robust and inviting, this pasta promises to become a new favorite for weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Prepare to savor every single bite of this irresistible culinary masterpiece.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: Delicious Details

• Whip Up Quickly: Perfect for busy weeknights, this garlic Parmesan chicken rigatoni comes together in just a few simple steps, making dinner stress-free and delicious.
• Customize with Ease: Versatile recipe allows you to swap ingredients or add extra vegetables, helping you create a meal that suits your family's taste preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy Parmesan create a crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies both kids and adults with its rich, comforting flavors.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in a single pan, saving time on dishes and making post-dinner relaxation much more enjoyable.

All About Rigatoni Ingredient Essentials

• Rigatoni Pasta: A hearty, tube-shaped pasta that perfectly captures the creamy sauce.
• Chicken: Tender, seasoned protein that adds delicious flavor to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a rich, nutty taste and helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.

• Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Classic blend that enhances the chicken's flavor profile.
• Garlic: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb that provides a pop of color and light flavor.

• Butter, Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Combine to create a luxurious, velvety sauce base that coats the pasta and chicken.

Step-by-Step for Chicken Rigatoni Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook rigatoni according to package instructions.

Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Sauté the chicken until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Create Garlic Base

In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic.

Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes aromatic and releases its fragrant oils.

Step 4: Develop Sauce

Pour chicken broth into the skillet and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.

• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Merge Components

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

Add the reserved rigatoni pasta and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish.

Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the sauce is creamy.

Handy Tips for Chicken Rigatoni Dishes

• Cook rigatoni al dente to maintain a slight bite and prevent mushy texture.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure even browning and crispy exterior.
• Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring to prevent clumping and create a silky sauce.
• Chop fresh parsley just before serving to preserve its vibrant color and maximize flavor.
• Prepare chicken and sauce separately, then combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture.

Rigatoni with Chicken – Different Approaches

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace rigatoni with gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpea flour. Use cornstarch to thicken sauce if needed.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with roasted cauliflower or white beans. Keep the creamy Parmesan sauce for rich flavor.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Maintain the garlic Parmesan sauce for a lighter meal.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy taste.

Plating Ideas for Chicken Rigatoni

• Pasta Party Platter: Serve this dish on a large communal platter, allowing everyone to scoop directly from the center, creating a warm and inviting family-style dining experience.
• Creamy Comfort Bowl: Pair the rigatoni with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy sauce and add a fresh, crisp element to the meal.
• Garlic Bread Companion: Accompany the chicken rigatoni with warm, toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce and provide an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dining experience.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Complement the dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay, which will enhance the creamy Parmesan sauce and cut through the richness of the chicken.

Keeping Chicken Rigatoni Ready for Later

• Store remaining Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Properly stored, the dish can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

• What makes this chicken rigatoni different from other pasta dishes?

This recipe combines creamy Parmesan sauce, seasoned chicken, and perfectly cooked rigatoni for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with penne, fettuccine, or linguine. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.

• Is this dish spicy?

No, this recipe is mild and flavorful. The Italian seasoning adds herbs without heat, making it kid-friendly and suitable for most palates.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Cook chicken until it reaches a golden color and internal temperature of 165°F. The chicken should be white throughout with no pink centers.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

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4.6 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent garlic parmesan chicken rigatoni delivers a symphony of Italian-inspired flavors that dance across your palate. Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta invite you to savor each comforting, delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless chicken breasts, bite-sized
• 12 ounces (340 grams) rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 grams) Parmesan, freshly grated

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons (45 grams) butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Season chicken pieces with a blend of Italian herbs, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and bubbling.
3. Sauté chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning.
4. Lower skillet temperature and add minced garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Allow aromatics to release for 30-45 seconds.
5. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, creating a fragrant liquid base. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to concentrate flavors.
6. Introduce heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Reintroduce cooked chicken to the creamy sauce, allowing it to warm through and absorb the rich flavors for 1-2 minutes.
8. Fold rigatoni into the skillet, gently coating pasta with the luxurious sauce, ensuring even distribution of chicken and seasonings.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, providing a bright, herbaceous finish. Serve immediately while hot and aromatic.

Notes

• Cook rigatoni just until firm to the bite, ensuring it maintains a slight chewiness and won’t become mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior, which locks in flavor and creates a delicious caramelized surface.
• Remove the pan from direct heat when adding Parmesan to prevent curdling, allowing the cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter version, and use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 640
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 150mg