Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of garlic and parmesan, especially when it embraces tender rigatoni and juicy chicken. Imagine a dish that fills your kitchen with an aroma so captivating that even your neighbor might start dropping hints for dinner invitations. grilled chicken and broccoli Yes, my friends, we’re diving into Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni, a delightful meal that’s as comforting as your favorite pair of sweatpants.

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening after a long day, and you unveil a steaming bowl of garlic parmesan chicken rigatoni that instantly warms your soul. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta while the garlic adds a zing that dances on your palate. creamy garlic chicken dish It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends at a weekend gathering. Trust me, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds.

I once served this dish at a gathering, and let me tell you—my friend Sarah practically chased me down for the recipe after her first bite. Who knew garlic and parmesan could turn friends into food critics?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for tubular pasta to catch all that creamy sauce; it’s truly the star of the show. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust according to your hungry crowd.
• Fresh Garlic: Get firm cloves for maximum flavor; the more, the merrier in this garlicky delight.
• Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese; it melts beautifully and enhances the dish’s richness.
• Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil brings everything together; don’t skimp here!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust these according to taste.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish; it adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add 12 ounces of rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.

Sauté the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 3-4 pounds of cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan.

Add the Garlic: Once chicken is nearly cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—add 4-6 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute; be careful not to burn it!

Create the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and mix well. Stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy; this is where the magic happens.

Toss Everything Together: Drain pasta and add it directly into the skillet with sauce and chicken. Toss gently until every piece is coated in that delicious garlicky goodness.

Garnish & Serve!: Finish off by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over everything before serving hot. Watch everyone swoon as they dig into their bowls!

Enjoying Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni isn’t just about eating—it’s an experience filled with laughter, stories shared around the table, and flavors that linger long after dinner is over. flavorful BBQ chicken marinade It’s time to roll up those sleeves and get cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing chicken until golden brown. While it cooks, boil the rigatoni and prepare your luscious garlic parmesan sauce simultaneously for efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. BBQ chicken flatbread pizza Different cheeses can also give unique flavors to your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk to revive creaminess.

The first time I made Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got to enjoy any myself! They laughed as they fought over the last bit—definitely a sign of success! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat rigatoni instead?

Yes, whole wheat rigatoni works well and adds extra fiber.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

You can substitute with garlic powder; use about one teaspoon per clove needed.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is a heartwarming dish that combines tender rigatoni pasta with juicy chicken, all enveloped in a rich garlic and parmesan sauce. This quick and easy recipe promises to delight your taste buds while filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining friends, this meal will have everyone coming back for more!

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 4–6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and add grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
5. Combine: Drain the pasta and toss it into the skillet with the sauce and chicken until well coated.
6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 575
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 91mg