Craving comfort food that’s easy to make and utterly delicious? Look no further than this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni recipe! It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. You’ll find yourself making this one again and again. For more delicious inspiration, check out this article on easy weeknight dinners. To explore more pasta recipes, visit our pasta recipe collection.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Gather your ingredients and get ready to cook!

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This recipe is straightforward, and the results are simply divine. The process involves cooking the chicken, creating a flavorful garlic butter sauce, and combining everything with perfectly cooked pasta and cheese. It’s a meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. For more great pasta ideas, check out Serious Eats’ pasta recipes.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully.

Another favorite of ours is the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Green Beans Recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Add the cooked chicken and the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Serve

Top the pasta with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes, or place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your cheesy, garlicky creation!

Another favorite of ours is the Bbq Chicken Quesadillas Cheesy Quick.

Recommended Tools & Equipment for Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen. Here are a few essentials that will make preparing this dish a breeze. These tools will help you cook with ease and enjoy the process from start to finish.

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

PRO TIPS for Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Variations & Serving Ideas

Get creative and make this dish your own! Here are a few ideas to customize your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni and make it even more exciting. These variations will help you create a meal that perfectly suits your tastes or the occasion.

• Add vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would be delicious additions.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Use different cheeses: Try a mix of cheeses like provolone, fontina, or asiago.
• Make it a casserole: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), storing and reheating this pasta dish is easy. Here are some tips to keep your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni tasting its best. Properly storing and reheating will ensure you can enjoy this dish for days to come.

If you enjoyed this, you might also love our Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thyme Garlic Recipe recipe.

Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoy this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni recipe as much as we do! It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make it your own. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, visit our recipe index.

FAQs About Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Simply omit the chicken and add some sauteed vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also add chickpeas or white beans for protein.

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, rotini, or farfalle would work well.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serve with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

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