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Easy Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan – Creamy 30-Minute Pasta

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Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender chicken and rich, creamy sauce. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a delightful combination of garlic butter and freshly grated Parmesan that will impress everyone at the table. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an inviting dinner experience that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown. Remove from pan.
  3. Melt butter in the same skillet, add minced garlic, and sauté briefly. Pour in chicken broth and simmer.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and let thicken slightly before mixing in Parmesan cheese.
  5. Return chicken to the skillet, add rigatoni, and toss everything until well coated. Simmer for an additional minute.
  6. Serve garnished with parsley.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and taste.

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