Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

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Creamy, cheesy, and totally crave-worthy, these Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce are the kind of comfort food that speaks straight to the soul. Picture juicy chicken bites pan-seared in golden garlic butter, tossed with rich Alfredo sauce and nestled between ridged rigatoni pasta that grabs onto every bit of creamy goodness. It’s a dinner that feels indulgent but comes together with weeknight ease.

This recipe is perfect for when you’re after something quick yet luxurious. Whether you’re feeding a family or indulging in a pasta night for two, this dish delivers both the cozy satisfaction of garlic butter and the rich elegance of Alfredo in one pan. The crispy-edged chicken with its cheesy coating pairs effortlessly with smooth, velvety sauce and pasta, making every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

This dish strikes a beautiful balance between simplicity and decadence. You don’t need a special occasion to make it, but it sure feels like one when it’s served. The combination of golden garlic butter, melty cheese, and thick Alfredo sauce turns everyday ingredients into something magical. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — use your favorite pasta, customize the seasoning, or even add a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For best results, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully in this dish. Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and offer more flavor, while breasts give a leaner option. Whichever you choose, make sure the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking and maximum surface area to soak up all that garlic butter and cheese.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

Let’s talk ingredients, because each one in this dish brings serious flavor to the table. From the richness of the butter to the cheesy notes and creamy Alfredo sauce, everything has a role in creating the ultimate comfort meal.

• Chicken breast or thighs
• Garlic cloves
• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Heavy cream
• Rigatoni pasta
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden and crispy on the edges, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Lower the heat and add remaining butter along with minced garlic. Let it cook until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stir gently, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked rigatoni, and gently toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with more cheese if you like, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy garlic bliss!

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

This meal is best served straight from the skillet while it’s hot and creamy. That said, leftovers taste just as good the next day. If you’re feeding a family, this recipe comfortably serves 4 to 6 people. Store any extra portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply add a splash of cream or milk and warm it gently over the stove or in the microwave. This brings the sauce back to life without drying it out. Freezing isn’t ideal because the Alfredo sauce can separate, but if needed, freeze in portions and reheat slowly with added liquid to restore the creaminess.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread with a Crunch

A golden, crispy garlic bread is the ultimate sidekick to scoop up every drop of that Alfredo sauce.

Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts

The rich sauce pairs beautifully with roasted veggies that offer a bit of char and texture.

Caprese Salad

A fresh tomato, basil, and mozzarella salad cuts through the richness and adds a vibrant touch.

Caesar Salad

Classic, crunchy, and loaded with Parmesan, it’s a timeless side that complements creamy pasta.

Steamed Asparagus

Bright green spears with just a touch of lemon make a simple yet elegant pairing.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Lightly cooked spinach adds iron and freshness without overpowering the flavors.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

A refreshing drink that keeps your palate clean between bites.

Crispy Zucchini Rounds

Another crunchy contrast, like in our Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds, adds a fun and healthy balance.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy and cheesy skillet dinner hit the spot, you might love these other flavorful meals from our kitchen:

• Try this savory and hearty Low Carb Chicken Casserole for a satisfying yet lighter dish.
• Craving something with a little extra kick? This Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce has bold flavors and comfort in every slurp.
• For a more veggie-forward pasta, the Creamy Mushroom Ravioli brings earthy, rich notes to the table.
• If baked dinners are your go-to, the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a golden, cheesy crowd-pleaser.
• Or serve up a skillet full of goodness with this Easy Chicken Fried Rice for a simple one-pan meal.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever a comfort meal is calling.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went for you! Did you make it extra garlicky? Add mushrooms or spinach? Leave your thoughts and tips in the comments.

You can explore more home-style, flavor-packed meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest where I share new ideas daily to keep your cooking fresh and fun.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce is exactly the kind of dinner that makes you pause mid-bite just to appreciate how good it is. It’s got golden chicken, a rich sauce, pasta that hugs every bit of flavor, and the kind of satisfying finish that makes it worth repeating. Whether it’s a special evening or a regular Tuesday, this is one skillet dish that brings the wow factor with little effort.

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