If you’re craving comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce delivers all that and more. Featuring tender pieces of chicken seared in garlic butter, then tossed with al dente rigatoni and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is the perfect weeknight indulgence. It comes together in one pan with simple ingredients, yet tastes like something you’d order at your favorite Italian restaurant.

This recipe is ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned home chefs alike. It’s simple enough to whip up after a long day but elegant enough to serve for date night or when entertaining guests. The creamy Parmesan sauce clings beautifully to the rigatoni, and the garlic butter adds a layer of savory depth that makes each bite unforgettable. Best of all, it’s a one-dish meal that combines protein, pasta, and rich flavor in perfect balance. Whether you’re looking to impress or just want a cozy, delicious dinner, this creamy chicken and pasta recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy Sauce: A velvety Parmesan cream sauce that coats every bite.
One-Pan Meal: Simple cleanup and easy cooking with everything in one pan.
Comfort Food Classic: Warm, hearty, and full of familiar flavors.
Perfectly Balanced: The richness of cream and cheese is complemented by savory chicken and herbs.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Butter
Garlic
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Rigatoni pasta
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley

Variations

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Use Another Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu.
Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or reduce the amount of cheese.
Low-Carb: Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return chicken to the skillet, add the cooked rigatoni, and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, best-flavored sauce.
Don’t boil the cream; a gentle simmer helps it thicken without curdling.
Season chicken well before searing for maximum flavor.
If sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of reserved pasta water or broth.
Let the pasta finish cooking in the sauce to absorb more flavor.

How to Serve

With garlic bread or a warm baguette.
Alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Topped with extra cheese and fresh herbs.
With a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Served family-style straight from the skillet for casual dining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, add it toward the end to heat through without overcooking.

2. Can I substitute the cream?

Yes, use half-and-half or evaporated milk, but the sauce may be less rich.

3. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Rigatoni is great, but penne, fettuccine, or farfalle also work well.

4. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Pre-grated can be used, but freshly grated melts better and tastes superior.

5. Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you add chili flakes; it’s naturally mild.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli are excellent additions.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer the cream gently and avoid high heat after adding cheese.

8. What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube are good alternatives.

9. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything and reheat just before serving, adding a splash of cream if needed.

10. How do I keep leftovers from drying out?

Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to maintain moisture.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the perfect comfort food that doesn’t require complicated steps or exotic ingredients. With tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself, this dish brings both flavor and comfort to the table with ease. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, garlicky, Parmesan-loaded bite.