If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that bursts with rich, cheesy flavor and tender, garlicky chicken, this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining creamy cheeses with perfectly seared chicken and al dente rigatoni, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of textures and flavors that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish will quickly become one of your favorites to prepare and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors. From the tender chicken to the trio of cheeses, each component adds its own magic to the final dish.
- 10 oz Rigatoni Pasta: The ridged tubes are perfect for catching all that luscious sauce.
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts: Versatile and lean, but feel free to use thighs for extra juiciness.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic really makes the sauce pop with flavor.
- 3 tbsp Butter: Adds richness; olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates the creamy, velvety sauce base, with half-and-half as a lighter option.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Brings sharpness and depth to the cheese blend.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Adds that melty, stretchy texture we all love.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Infuses nuttiness and a savory umami punch.
- 1 tsp Paprika: Provides warmth and a beautiful hint of color to the chicken.
- 1 tsp Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped): Brightens the dish with fresh herbaceous notes.
How to Make Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your rigatoni and cook it just until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. This ensures that the pasta will hold its shape and provide a satisfying bite once mixed with the rich sauce. After draining, toss the rigatoni lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and keep the texture just right.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and paprika to impart flavor and a subtle smoky warmth. Heat the butter and olive oil together in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and sear for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Set the chicken aside to rest – this makes it juicier and easier to slice.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt more butter and add the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk continuously to keep the sauce smooth and silky. Gradually stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, letting them melt into a luscious, cheesy dream. This sauce is the heart of the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe, so patience and gentle stirring pay off big time.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with your creamy garlic cheese sauce. Toss everything gently so each piece of pasta is wrapped in that delicious sauce. This step ensures every bite is decadently cheesy and flavorful, making your meal utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Slice and Serve the Chicken
Slice your rested chicken breasts into tender strips and arrange them on top of the cheesy rigatoni. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately so you can enjoy the perfect balance of hot, creamy pasta and savory chicken.
How to Serve Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice to add a bright contrast to the richness of this dish. You can also sprinkle a bit more grated Parmesan or cracked black pepper on top for an extra punch of flavor and texture. A small drizzle of good olive oil right before serving can add a lovely, glossy finish.
Side Dishes
To complement the richness of this dish, consider serving a crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Light, lemony sides help balance the heaviness of the cheese and cream, making your meal more well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or oven-safe dishes. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top and broil for a couple of minutes to get a bubbly, golden crust. This adds a delightful texture and presentation that always impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The dish keeps well for up to three days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to make this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe ahead of time, freeze the prepared dish before adding fresh parsley. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will last up to two months. Remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from clumping. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce feels too thick to restore its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding the sauce, penne, ziti, or even fusilli work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure not to overcook the pasta for the best texture.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap butter with olive oil and use dairy-free cheese alternatives along with coconut cream or other plant-based creams to create a luscious, dairy-free version, though the flavor profile will be a bit different.
Is it better to use chicken breasts or thighs?
Chicken breasts give a lean, classic taste, but thighs offer more juiciness and deeper flavor. Both work well, so choose based on your preference.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! This recipe doubles or triples easily. Just make sure you have a large enough pot for boiling pasta and a big skillet or pan to cook the chicken and sauce.
What wine pairs well with Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly, cutting through the richness while enhancing the savory chicken flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe is a labor of love that rewards you with a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal every time. It’s simple enough to whip up on busy evenings but special enough to bring a smile to anyone at your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your regular dinner rotation!
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Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Delicious Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe combines tender rigatoni pasta with a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce and perfectly seared chicken breasts. With melted cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, this dish offers a comforting, cheesy experience that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The addition of fresh garlic and a sprinkle of parsley adds fresh, aromatic flavors to this hearty meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10 oz Rigatoni Pasta (or any similar pasta like penne or ziti)
Chicken
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts (or thighs for juiciness)
- 1 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp Paprika (for warmth and color)
Sauce
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (fresh garlic recommended)
- 3 tbsp Butter (olive oil can be used as a dairy-free substitute)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for searing)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (half-and-half can be a lighter alternative)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or other meltable cheese like Gouda)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (for stretchiness and creaminess)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (for nuttiness and umami)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking.
- Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika evenly on both sides. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with the olive oil. Add the chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt additional butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk continuously. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Finish: Add the drained rigatoni directly into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta thoroughly. Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the cheesy rigatoni.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish to add brightness and a fresh finish. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your hearty cheesy rigatoni with garlic parmesan chicken.
Notes
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up best in creamy dishes.
- Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
