Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that wraps you in warm, cheesy comfort while delivering tender, succulent chicken and perfectly al dente pasta, then look no further than Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta. This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser with its luscious, cheesy sauce marrying every bite of juicy chicken and hearty rigatoni. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-to recipes for that rich, satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, widely available ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that make this dish irresistible. From the rich, creamy cheeses to the fresh parsley giving a vibrant pop of green, every element plays a crucial role in the magic of Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta.

• Rigatoni pasta: The perfect tube-shaped pasta to hold onto that creamy sauce in every bite.
• Olive oil: Adds a fruity, smooth base for browning the chicken with a lovely golden crust.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, they cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor in this dish.
• Garlic powder: Provides a subtle, aromatic garlicky warmth without overpowering.
• Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the chicken seasoning.
• Unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce for extra richness and smoothness.
• Minced garlic: Fresh and fragrant, it infuses the sauce with a delightful punch of flavor.
• Heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, giving it that unbeatable creamy texture.
• Chicken broth: Balances the cream with a savory note and prevents the sauce from being too heavy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce creating that signature cheesy goodness.
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, melty texture and mild creaminess.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped for a fresh, herbaceous contrast and a splash of color.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs giving the sauce a subtle Mediterranean flair.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want to add a little kick and spice to each sumptuous bite.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is crucial because the salt seasons the pasta from within. Add one pound of rigatoni and cook it until al dente—firm to the bite but fully cooked. Drain and set the pasta aside so it’s ready to soak up all that luscious sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare and Brown the Chicken

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. When the oil is shimmering hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want a beautiful golden crust and juicy meat inside. Once cooked through, remove from heat and slice into strips for easy mixing later.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce Base

Use the same skillet to melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add three cloves of minced garlic and sauté for just a minute until the aroma fills your kitchen. Be careful not to burn the garlic because that will add bitterness. Then slowly pour in one cup of heavy cream and one cup of chicken broth, stirring gently. Let this simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and build that creamy foundation.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Now for the star! Stir in one cup of grated Parmesan cheese and one cup of shredded mozzarella while continuing to stir the sauce. Watch as the cheeses melt into a silky, dreamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and chicken. This is where the magic happens, giving you the signature cheesy richness of Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Seasonings

Stir in two tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. These fresh herbs add an herby brightness that balances the creaminess. At this point, toss the sliced chicken back into the skillet, coating each piece with that luscious sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and gently toss everything together. You want every bite of pasta to be enveloped in that creamy Parmesan chicken sauce. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta

Garnishes

Sometimes a little garnish is all you need to take a dish to the next level. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but freshens every bite. If you like a bit of heat, crushed red pepper flakes sprinkle over the top will add a subtle spicy contrast to the richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan is a classic finishing touch that makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully filling, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds a nice balance. Think bright lemony arugula salad, garlic roasted asparagus, or even some sautéed spinach. The freshness cuts through the creamy sauce, making the meal taste both indulgent and well-rounded. Crusty bread also pairs beautifully, perfect for mopping up every last drop of that incredible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprig of parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Alternatively, bake it briefly in a casserole dish with extra mozzarella on top until bubbly and golden for a family-style comfort meal. You can also add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms into the sauce to enrich the flavor and add a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will soak up more sauce as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it back up to its original creamy glory.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor. Avoid freezing if you prefer the pasta to stay perfectly al dente, as it may soften slightly during freezing and reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to rejuvenate the sauce’s texture. Microwaving works too; just cover loosely and heat in short bursts to avoid overheating and drying out the chicken. The key is to keep it creamy and luscious, just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle also work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to keep a nice bite.

Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use low-fat mozzarella to reduce the richness. Keep in mind this will alter the creaminess slightly but will still be delicious.

Can I prepare this recipe without chicken?

Definitely! For a vegetarian version, try substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted cauliflower for a hearty and satisfying option.

What if I don’t have freshly chopped parsley?

Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but fresh parsley really brightens the dish and adds vibrant color. If using dried, reduce the amount to about one teaspoon as it’s more concentrated.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add a spicy kick to your Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce while cooking or sprinkle them as a garnish. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning before cooking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that combines rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken and satisfying pasta in every bite. I can’t recommend enough giving this Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Rigatoni Pasta a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes your new favorite for cozy dinners. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with flavor, and a beautiful meal that brings smiles around the table. So grab your apron, gather those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious plate of comfort.

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