Name: Garlic Butter Chicken: A Creamy Weeknight Winner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta (Can substitute with penne or fusilli.); 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut into bite-sized pieces.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin preferred.); 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can use plant-based butter for dairy-free.); 4 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh garlic is recommended.); ½ cup Chicken Broth (Use vegetable broth for vegetarian version.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Light cream is a lower-calorie option.); ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) (Pecorino Romano can be an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional) (Omit for milder flavor.); ¼ cup Chopped Fresh Parsley (For garnish.)

In just 30 minutes, I discovered a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate: Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan. This creamy delight brings tender pieces of chicken together with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce that dances on the taste buds. Not only is this recipe a fantastic way to impress your loved ones on a busy weeknight, but it also transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal the entire family will adore. Plus, with the option to easily switch out chicken for shrimp or veggies, it’s a versatile favorite that keeps weeknight dinners exciting. Curious about how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Garlic Butter Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity, this quick and easy recipe takes just 30 minutes to create, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy indulgence, the rich garlic butter sauce ensures every bite is a delicious experience. Family-friendly, it’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Versatile options allow you to swap chicken with shrimp or veggies for variety. Impressive yet approachable, you can impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal, and don’t forget to explore our other favorites like Crockpot Garlic Butter for more delightful dinner ideas!

Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Rigatoni Pasta – Provides structure and acts as the base of the dish; substitute with penne or fusilli if needed.

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source, cut into bite-sized pieces; can be exchanged with shrimp or vegetables for variety.
• Olive Oil – For sautéing the chicken and preventing sticking; choose extra virgin for the best flavor.

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the creamy garlic sauce; plant-based butter can be a good dairy-free option.
• Garlic (minced) – Delivers delicious robust flavor; fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best taste.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances the sauce flavor while providing moisture; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy sauce that makes this garlic butter chicken irresistible; light cream is a lower-calorie alternative.
• Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Provides that salty, nutty flavor that brings the dish together; Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be alternatives.
• Italian Seasoning – Adds a fragrant blend of herbs to complete the flavor profile; fresh herbs may also bring a burst of freshness.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a slight kick to the dish; omit for a milder flavor.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to your garlic butter chicken.

Dive into preparing this wonderful dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 12 ounces of rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-13 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve half a cup of the pasta water, drain the rigatoni, and set it aside in a large bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the bite-sized boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned. Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits, and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Cream and Cheese
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream to the simmering broth mixture, and let it simmer for around 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add ¾ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, mixing until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the cooked chicken and rigatoni pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently to ensure the chicken and pasta are well-coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through. This will ensure that each piece of rigatoni and chicken is infused with flavor.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. For an extra touch, add additional grated Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat. Your creamy Garlic Butter Chicken is now ready to serve!

Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken

Refrigerator: Store your Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave in intervals, stirring in between. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth to regain creaminess.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve the flavors and texture.

Garlic Butter Chicken: Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with these variations that will excite your palate and cater to your family’s tastes!

Shrimp Option: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a delicious twist. Simply sauté the shrimp until pink and tender.
Veggie Delight: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost and vibrant color.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat rigatoni instead for a heartier, healthier alternative that brings more fiber to the dish.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream for a creamy, vegan-friendly option without sacrificing taste.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes for a delightful heat that’ll warm you up!
Lemon Zest: Brighten up your dish with a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving, adding a zesty refreshment that complements the garlic beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herb mixtures or fresh herbs like basil and cilantro to elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.
Nutty Flavor: Consider using nutritional yeast as a vegan alternative to Parmesan, imparting a nutty flavor while keeping it plant-based.

Explore these ideas to create a unique version of your Garlic Butter Chicken that suits your flavors and preferences! And if you’re craving more delightful chicken creations, check out my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes or Lemon Garlic Butter Cod to keep your dinner table exciting.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare both the chicken and sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their delicious flavors. Simply cook the chicken as instructed, let it cool, and then store in a separate container. The sauce can be made and refrigerated too; just be sure to stir in a splash of chicken broth before reheating to keep it creamy. When ready to serve, boil your rigatoni and then combine everything in a skillet for a quick, warming dish that tastes just as fresh as if made on the spot!

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Create the ultimate dining experience by enhancing your Garlic Butter Chicken with delightful sides that perfectly complement its creamy richness.

Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery classic is perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic sauce from your dish, bringing an extra crunch to your meal.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and zesty dressing create a fresh contrast to the creamy chicken, balancing flavors beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add not only a splash of color but also a nutritious crunch that pairs well with the smooth texture of the rigatoni.
Roasted Asparagus: The earthiness of roasted asparagus elevates the meal, while its slight char enhances the flavors of garlic in the chicken.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness, making each bite of your Garlic Butter Chicken even more enjoyable.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this palate-cleansing treat adds a refreshing citrus note after the savory meal, leaving a bright and zesty flavor lingering.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken

Prep Ingredients First: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will streamline your cooking process and avoid last-minute scrambles.
Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking chicken; this ensures a perfect golden brown while keeping the pieces juicy.
Pasta Water Magic: Reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s key for adjusting the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it perfectly clings to your Garlic Butter Chicken.
Go Fresh with Garlic: Always use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for a bolder flavor that truly elevates your dish.
Creamy Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick after adding the cream and cheese, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess.
Don’t Skip the Parsley: Garnishing with chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances freshness in your Garlic Butter Chicken.

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta is best for Garlic Butter Chicken?
I recommend using rigatoni for its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, penne or fusilli are great alternatives if you prefer them, giving you the same delightful texture.

How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken?
Store your Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, I suggest you let it cool completely before sealing.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Be sure to transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Gradually stir in reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency. This magic water adds both moisture and flavor!

Is Garlic Butter Chicken suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for a dairy-free diet by swapping unsalted butter with plant-based butter, and using a non-dairy milk or cream alternative. Just be cautious with the cheese, substituting it with nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese will do the trick!