Introduction
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is an indulgent dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful garlic, and rich Parmesan in a delightful pasta experience. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Each bite is a delicious blend of creamy sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni, ensuring that no one leaves the table hungry.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 1 pound
Rigatoni pasta – 12 ounces
Butter – 4 tablespoons
Garlic cloves – 4, minced
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, grated
Chicken broth – 1 cup
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley – for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to rest, and then slice it into strips.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and allow it to melt. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Create the Parmesan Sauce
Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring continuously. Gradually incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, stirring to combine and coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and mix everything together.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Tip for Chicken Cooking
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Parmesan Cheese Quality
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
Pasta Cooking Time
Be cautious not to overcook the rigatoni; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Adjusting Sauce Consistency
Feel free to adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more reserved pasta water as needed.
Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken in butter helps to lock in moisture and create a savory, golden crust which enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Creating a Roux
By combining butter and flour, you create a roux that serves as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce, giving it the perfect consistency.
Deglazing the Pan
Deglazing the pan with chicken broth allows you to incorporate all the flavorful bits left from searing the chicken, ensuring that no flavor is wasted.
Reducing Sauce
Allowing the sauce to reduce concentrates the flavors, making it richer and more delicious. This step is crucial for achieving a luscious consistency.
Cooking Pasta Al Dente
Cooking the rigatoni to al dente ensures that it has a firm texture, which holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
Finishing with Parmesan
Stirring in freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end adds depth and creaminess to the sauce, elevating the dish’s overall flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use another type of pasta instead of rigatoni?
Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli, keeping in mind that the cooking time may vary.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can use a lighter butter alternative and reduce the amount of cream and cheese for a healthier version.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to maintain texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or your favorite vegetables, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
What can I serve with creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni?
This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complement the rich flavors.
Conclusion
The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. The savory garlic butter sauce enhances the tender chicken while the rigatoni absorbs all the creaminess, making it an irresistible meal. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
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