Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is the weeknight dinner hero we all need. Imagine tender chunks of golden-seared chicken tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni, smothered in a luxurious garlic butter cream sauce. Every bite is rich, savory, and bursting with flavor—this is comfort food at its finest, ideal for cozy nights in or when you’re looking to impress without the fuss.

The creamy sauce clings to the rigatoni’s ridges, while the chicken adds that irresistible savory bite. With pantry staples and a short prep time, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers maximum reward. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

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What Makes Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni So Irresistible?

It’s the harmony of textures and bold flavors that win hearts. The rich, garlicky butter sauce infused with parmesan and cream transforms everyday ingredients into something indulgent. Rigatoni, with its tubular shape, captures all that velvety goodness. Add in juicy, well-seasoned chicken bites, and you’ve got a meal that hits every note of satisfaction.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless, cubed into bite-sized pieces. Chicken adds protein and a golden crust that deepens flavor.

Rigatoni Pasta – This hearty pasta shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly and offers a satisfying bite.

Butter – The base for our sauce. It adds richness and enhances the garlic flavor beautifully.

Garlic – Freshly minced for maximum impact. Garlic is key to flavoring the sauce.

Heavy Cream – Gives the sauce that indulgent, creamy texture and depth.

Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated, it melts into the sauce and adds savory umami.

Italian Seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs to round out the dish’s flavor.

Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer of the dish.

Fresh Parsley – Chopped for garnish. It brightens the final dish with color and a touch of freshness.

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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain, but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add more butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add another pinch of Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni and seared chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This dish is best served fresh and piping hot, straight from the skillet. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side. A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled rigatoni into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. While you can freeze it, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly when thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or even rotini work well. Just aim for a pasta that holds sauce nicely.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cream cheese for a lighter version. Keep in mind, it won’t be as rich.

Can I make it spicy?

Of course! Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that all seasonings and cheese are gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just warm it in the sauce instead of searing it from scratch. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.

What cheese can I use besides parmesan?

Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a mild gouda can work beautifully if you’re looking to mix it up.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, here are more pasta creations from Life with Nina you should absolutely try:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a comforting twist with rotini.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving extra creamy decadence.
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner for a weeknight-friendly meal that comes together fast.
• Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta when you’re ready to switch up the flavor profile.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for a nostalgic comfort food fix.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s always ready when cravings hit: Life with Nina Pinterest.

Tried this recipe? Share how it went in the comments! Did you go extra garlicky or add a veggie twist? I’d love to hear how you made it your own. Questions or tips are always welcome—let’s help each other make weeknight meals better!

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