Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, this Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is the kind of comfort food that warms your soul with every bite. Perfectly seasoned chicken is pan-seared to golden perfection, then tossed with tender rigatoni in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce. It’s the perfect fusion of rich Italian flavor with a cozy, home-cooked twist.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress at your next dinner party, this dish delivers restaurant-level taste with minimal fuss. With a short ingredient list and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a weeknight dinner dream come true. Plus, leftovers taste just as amazing the next day—if you’re lucky enough to have any!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Incredible Flavor: The garlic butter sauce blends beautifully with juicy chicken and pasta, creating a creamy, crave-worthy bite every time.
Quick and Easy: From stovetop to table in under 40 minutes.
Hearty and Satisfying: Great for both weeknight dinners and weekend indulgence.
Customizable: Add veggies, herbs, or even a dash of chili flakes for some heat.
Kid-Friendly: A surefire hit with picky eaters too!

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Each ingredient in this dish plays an important role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Rigatoni Pasta – Its thick, ridged shape is ideal for holding onto that creamy garlic butter sauce.
Chicken Breast – Lean, tender, and protein-packed. It cooks quickly and soaks up all the seasonings.
Butter – The base of the sauce, adding richness and a velvety finish.
Garlic (freshly minced) – The star of the show. Nothing beats the aroma and taste of real garlic.
Heavy Cream – Makes the sauce creamy and luxurious.
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Adds nuttiness and umami depth.
Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasoning that enhances every bite.
Paprika – For a hint of smoky flavor and color.
Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish and adds freshness.
Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken to a perfect golden brown.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

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

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream sauce and stir until melted and smooth. Return the cooked rigatoni and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is fully coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This rich and creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni serves 4 to 6 people, making it a perfect main dish for family dinners or small gatherings. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream base, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Garlic Bread

Classic, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate partner for soaking up every last bit of the sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Think roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. They add a great contrast in texture and flavor.

Grilled Zucchini

Lightly seasoned and grilled zucchini offers a subtle, smoky side that doesn’t overpower the dish.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze add a refreshing and colorful addition.

Sautéed Spinach

A quick sauté with garlic and olive oil makes for a healthy, vibrant side.

Red Wine

A glass of Pinot Noir or Chianti complements the creamy sauce and enhances the savory chicken.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

For a non-alcoholic option, this keeps the meal feeling fresh and light.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni holds sauce well, you can use penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook everything and refrigerate it. Just reheat on the stovetop with a bit of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

3. Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter with vegan butter and the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind, the flavor will change slightly.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside. An internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s safe to eat.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions. Add them during the sauce step so they cook gently and soak up flavor.

Save This Pin For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add veggies or swap the pasta? Did you go with grilled chicken or rotisserie?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is everything you want in a weeknight meal: flavorful, satisfying, and comforting. The creamy garlic sauce clings to every bite of pasta and juicy chicken, making it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or enjoying a quiet night in, this pasta delivers serious comfort with very little effort.