Golden seared chicken tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, folded through al dente rigatoni, and topped with a generous snowfall of grated Parmesan—this dish is comfort food with an elegant twist. Perfectly balanced between creamy and savory, this pasta dinner is a crowd-pleaser that comes together easily on a weeknight but tastes like a restaurant-quality indulgence.

Whether you’re hosting guests or just want to treat yourself to a cozy dinner at home, Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan offers big flavor with minimal effort. The combination of juicy, well-seasoned chicken and velvety sauce clinging to each bite of pasta makes this a go-to favorite for both adults and kids alike.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This dish hits all the right notes—easy to make, full of bold flavor, and satisfying enough to feel like a complete meal on its own. The garlic butter adds a luscious richness without being heavy, while the sharpness of the Parmesan and freshness of herbs keep everything in balance.

Plus, it’s endlessly customizable: swap the rigatoni for your favorite pasta shape, add veggies like spinach or peas, or spice it up with red pepper flakes. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for something delicious to serve tonight, this recipe adapts to your needs.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in delivering that irresistible flavor and creamy texture you’re after. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why:

Chicken breast – Lean, tender, and easy to cook, it forms the protein base of the dish.
Rigatoni pasta – The ridges of rigatoni capture the sauce perfectly, making each bite flavorful.
Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic is the star here, infusing the butter with a deep, aromatic flavor.
Unsalted butter – Creates the rich, creamy base for the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.
Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken beautifully and adds a slight peppery undertone.
Parmesan cheese – Brings saltiness and depth, melting into the sauce and topping the dish with a nutty finish.
Fresh parsley – Adds a burst of color and freshness to balance the richness.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breast cubes generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the chicken to the pan, add the cooked rigatoni, and toss everything together. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta smoothly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle grated Parmesan generously over the pasta and toss once more. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This dish serves approximately 4 people, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy date night with leftovers. Serve it hot straight from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish for a more elegant presentation.

To store, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to bring back the creaminess of the sauce.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a natural pairing that complements the garlic in the pasta.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy rigatoni.

Steamed Broccoli

Bright and healthy, broccoli adds a touch of green to your plate without overpowering the main dish.

Roasted Asparagus

The earthy flavor of asparagus adds depth and a touch of elegance to the meal.

A Glass of Chardonnay

The buttery notes of a chilled Chardonnay perfectly echo the garlic butter sauce.

Lemon-Infused Sparkling Water

If you’re skipping wine, sparkling water with a twist of lemon helps cleanse the palate.

Caprese Skewers

A light appetizer that won’t overshadow your pasta—tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are always welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs will give you a slightly juicier texture and deeper flavor. Just be sure to trim any excess fat before cooking.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute the rigatoni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Double-check that your Parmesan is certified gluten-free as well.

3. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes are great additions that can be sautéed right in the same skillet for added color and nutrition.

4. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep your heat at medium when sautéing garlic, and stir constantly. Garlic cooks quickly and burns easily, which can turn the sauce bitter.

5. Is it okay to make this ahead of time?
You can make it a few hours ahead, but for the best texture, cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies? Try a different cheese?
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 with Rigatoni and Parmesan is more than just a pasta dish—it’s comfort, simplicity, and flavor all wrapped into one. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe never disappoints. It’s easy, adaptable, and made to be enjoyed.

Don’t forget to save, share, and revisit this favorite. Once you try it, you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.