Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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When you need a soul-satisfying dinner that’s both comforting and elevated, Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken delivers in every bite. The pasta is tender and creamy, the chicken is juicy and seared to golden perfection, and the whole plate is showered with fresh herbs and a buttery garlic finish.

This is one of those dishes that instantly feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this rigatoni recipe wins hearts with its cozy-meets-fancy vibes. The creamy cheese sauce clings to every noodle, while the garlic parmesan chicken brings all the savory depth you’d expect from a restaurant-worthy dinner.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is the star here for a reason. The tube shape and ridges are made to hold onto that rich, cheesy sauce, ensuring every forkful is loaded with flavor. You could substitute penne or ziti in a pinch, but rigatoni’s hearty bite makes it unbeatable in this dish.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Rigatoni Pasta – This tubular pasta traps the cheese sauce inside, creating a burst of creamy goodness with every bite.

Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Juicy, tender, and ideal for soaking up the garlic butter and parmesan flavor.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty nuttiness and creamy texture to both the sauce and the chicken coating.

Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with bold, savory depth.

Butter – Used for searing the chicken and creating the base of the sauce, it adds richness and a golden color.

Olive Oil – Helps get that perfect sear on the chicken and keeps everything from sticking.

Italian Seasoning – Brings together classic herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to round out the flavor.

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors throughout the dish.

Fresh Parsley – A pop of green and brightness to cut through the richness of the sauce.

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How To Make the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of parmesan. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce

Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until every piece is well-coated in the cheesy garlic cream.

Step 5: Slice and Add the Chicken

Slice the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces or thick slices. Nestle them into the pasta or serve arranged beautifully on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with extra parmesan on the side if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is best served fresh and warm, straight from the skillet. For an extra comforting touch, pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad. It’s hearty enough for a weeknight dinner and elegant enough for guests.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

If you’d like to freeze it, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. Reheat and combine before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, but you can use breasts if you prefer a leaner cut.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli would be great additions to round out the meal.

Is there a way to lighten the sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the parmesan is gluten-free as well.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Use a meat thermometer! Chicken is fully cooked at 165°F. Once it hits that, remove it from the heat to avoid drying it out.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll definitely want to try these other hearty pasta dishes:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce
• One Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
• One Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Mac
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine

📌 Looking for even more creamy, cozy recipes? Follow me on Pinterest where I share new dinner ideas daily: Life with Nina on Pinterest

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