Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

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If comfort food had a royal family, this dish would wear the crown. Picture tender bites of chicken coated in golden garlic butter, nestled among perfectly cooked rigatoni, all generously smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce. Every forkful is a harmony of rich Parmesan, smooth cream, and the irresistible savoriness of garlic, leaving you wishing the bowl had no bottom.

This recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. It’s indulgent without being overly complicated, which means you can whip it up on a weeknight but also serve it proudly for special occasions. The combination of creamy sauce and cheesy goodness wrapped around hearty pasta and juicy chicken makes it a universally loved meal.

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

From the very first bite, you’ll be hit with layers of flavor: the richness of garlic butter, the creaminess of Alfredo, and the cozy familiarity of pasta. It’s one of those recipes that not only satisfies hunger but also lifts your mood. Plus, it’s versatile—you can dress it up with herbs and veggies or keep it classic for that pure, cheesy bliss.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is the hero here for a reason. Those ridges and hollow centers are like little flavor vaults, trapping the creamy Alfredo and melted cheese so every bite is packed with taste. That said, if you’re in a pinch, penne or ziti can step in without stealing the spotlight.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

The magic of this dish comes from a handful of kitchen staples that, when combined, create something unforgettable. Each ingredient plays its role, from building flavor to giving that creamy, cheesy texture we all crave.

• Rigatoni pasta – The ridged tubes capture every bit of sauce and cheese for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Chicken breast – Lean, tender protein that soaks up the garlic butter beautifully.
• Garlic – The aromatic base that deepens the flavor of the sauce.
• Butter – Gives richness and a silky mouthfeel to the chicken and sauce.
• Heavy cream – Creates that luscious Alfredo creaminess.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey perfection for that signature cheese pull.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden brown without burning the butter.
• Salt and pepper – Enhances every element in the dish.
• Parsley – Adds a fresh pop of color and light herbal note.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Let it simmer gently, then stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the chicken and pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Cheesy Finish

Sprinkle mozzarella over the top, cover, and let it melt into the pasta. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

This dish is best served fresh off the stove while the mozzarella is still soft and stretchy. It comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people, making it a great choice for family dinners or small gatherings. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the rigatoni, so every serving is as rich and satisfying as the first.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for mopping up every last bit of Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Asparagus

The earthy flavor balances the richness of the pasta.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil lighten the meal with bright flavors.

Sautéed Spinach

A simple, garlicky green to add color and nutrition.

Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with tomato, basil, and olive oil for a fresh appetizer.

Creamy Tomato Soup

A warm, tangy starter that complements the creaminess of the pasta.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce, you might also enjoy these other comforting pasta creations from Luna Meals:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a hearty, flavorful twist.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta when you want a little spice with your cream.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a bold, buttery kick.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for an earthy, indulgent option.
• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken if you want your pasta night to have a fresh, cheesy twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again any time.

I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Did you stick with rigatoni or try a different pasta shape? Did you add extra cheese or some veggies? Sharing your variations helps others get inspired, too.

Explore even more delicious dinner recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next family favorite.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce is a dish that proves comfort food can also feel special. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a celebration at the table.

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