Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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Creamy, savory, and unapologetically indulgent, this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of comfort food that hugs your soul. Picture tender bites of juicy chicken kissed with garlic and Parmesan, nestled in a velvety cheese sauce, and wrapped in perfectly al dente rigatoni. It’s the weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend celebration, and the one-dish wonder that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning a cozy date night, this recipe offers the richness of a baked pasta dish without the fuss. With layers of gooey cheese, seasoned chicken, and a sauce that clings lovingly to every piece of pasta, it’s a surefire way to turn an ordinary meal into something unforgettable. Best of all, it’s simple enough to make from scratch on a busy evening.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is pure decadence made easy. The combination of rigatoni’s tubular shape with a cheese sauce that sneaks into every crevice creates bite after bite of pure satisfaction. The garlic Parmesan chicken delivers a seasoned and juicy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. Plus, it’s customizable—you can easily toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a veggie-boosted version without compromising the comfort.

It also reheats beautifully, which means leftovers (if you have any) make an amazing next-day lunch. And because it’s made in one pan and one pot, cleanup is mercifully minimal.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best?

Rigatoni is the real MVP here thanks to its sturdy shape and ridges that trap the cheesy goodness. However, if you’re out of rigatoni, penne or ziti are solid alternatives. Avoid delicate or thin pastas like angel hair or spaghetti—they just don’t hold up to the hearty sauce and chicken chunks. If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, feel free to substitute based on your dietary needs—just keep the shape thick and tubular for best results.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

A rich pasta dish like this calls for a handful of hearty, flavorful ingredients that work together in creamy harmony. Each component adds a layer of texture or taste, from the savory chicken to the blend of cheeses and aromatic garlic. Choosing quality ingredients makes all the difference.

• Rigatoni
• Chicken breast
• Garlic cloves
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Cream cheese
• Heavy cream
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (optional)

How To Make the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sear the chicken until golden on both sides and fully cooked. Remove and slice or dice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in cream cheese until smooth, then pour in heavy cream. Mix well, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add Parmesan and mozzarella, stirring until melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add cooked rigatoni and chicken back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving hot.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe makes a generous portion that feeds about 4 to 6 people comfortably. It’s perfect for family-style dining or casual entertaining. Serve it hot and fresh from the skillet, or transfer it to a serving dish for a more elevated presentation.

Storing leftovers is just as easy. Simply place the cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months, though the texture of the cheese sauce may change slightly after thawing.

What to Serve With Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread

Crispy and buttery garlic bread is a classic partner. It’s perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Caesar Salad

A crunchy Caesar salad adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the rigatoni with its tangy dressing and crisp romaine.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli brings a nutty, charred flavor that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil make for a vibrant, bite-sized side that lightens the meal.

Antipasto Platter

Add a little variety to the table with a small platter of marinated olives, artichokes, salami, and cheese.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These sweet and tangy sprouts offer a bold contrast to the savory cheese sauce.

Tomato Basil Soup

A warm bowl of soup is especially cozy in colder months and adds an extra layer of comfort to the meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this cheesy rigatoni with garlic Parmesan chicken, your pasta cravings are far from over. Check out these other deliciously comforting recipes on Luna Meals:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you’re a fan of creamy and bold sausage pairings.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for a rich and earthy bite with minimal prep.
• Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken when you want something refreshing and satisfying.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe for a kick of heat and spice.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine if you love robust garlic-butter flavor.

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📌 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 go heavy on the garlic or tweak the cheese blend? Did you add a little spice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of meal that hits every comfort note without being complicated. With just the right blend of creamy richness, savory chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that brings people together. Easy enough for a weekday and cozy enough for the weekend, it belongs in your rotation.

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