Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe Delight

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is like a cozy hug in a bowl. Imagine the rich, creamy sauce clinging to perfectly cooked rigatoni, while aromatic garlic dances with the nutty notes of Parmesan cheese. The moment you take a bite, it’s an explosion of flavor that promises to make your taste buds sing and your heart do a little happy dance.

I remember the first time I whipped up this dish for my friends. We were gathered for movie night, and I wanted something easy yet impressive. As soon as they walked through the door and inhaled that glorious aroma, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. It was a hit!

I once made this dish for a dinner party and accidentally created fans for life. My friends still talk about how they couldn’t resist seconds (or thirds).

Essential Ingredients

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

• Rigatoni Pasta: Choose thick rigatoni to hold the creamy sauce well; it adds texture and absorbs flavor beautifully.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your guest count.
• Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh garlic cloves; they pack a flavorful punch that elevates this dish.
• Heavy Cream: Look for high-quality heavy cream; it gives the sauce its luscious texture and richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano if possible; it enhances flavor and makes everything cheesy perfection.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will enrich the chicken’s flavor during cooking.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings are vital; they enhance all other flavors in this comforting recipe.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; don’t skip this step for visual appeal!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add rigatoni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides.

Add Garlic & Cream: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute—before pouring in heavy cream.

Add Cheese & Seasoning: Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the cream until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste; let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Everything Together: Slice cooked chicken into strips and return to skillet along with drained rigatoni pasta. Toss everything together until well-coated in creamy sauce.

Add Final Touches & Serve!: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving; serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired! Enjoy your heavenly creation!

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is sure to become your new go-to recipe! It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining guests. Now get cooking—your taste buds are waiting! For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in its juicy goodness, then cook the rigatoni while preparing the creamy sauce to maximize flavor without chaos.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh twist on this dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

The first time I made Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a taste! Their compliments still echo in my kitchen.

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well; just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.

What can I substitute if I don’t have chicken?

Feel free to use turkey, tofu, or even roasted vegetables instead of chicken.

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Experience the comforting flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni—a creamy, savory dish that combines tender chicken, rich garlic, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and will leave your taste buds delighted. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor every bite of this delectable pasta.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water for 10-12 minutes until al dente; drain.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides, then remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute before adding heavy cream. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet along with drained rigatoni. Toss until well-coated in the sauce.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg