Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

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If you’re craving a dish that wraps you up in warmth and flavor, Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo is exactly what your dinner table needs. This creamy, cheesy pasta is a comfort food classic that feels like a big hug in a bowl. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a silky Alfredo sauce, every bite is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just indulging in a cozy night at home, this dish delivers on both taste and simplicity. It comes together in under an hour but tastes like something you’d get at your favorite Italian bistro.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

This meal checks all the boxes. It’s creamy without being too heavy, filling without feeling weighed down, and full of comforting, familiar flavors. The chicken adds protein, the rigatoni gives that ideal pasta texture that holds sauce beautifully, and the Alfredo sauce is rich but balanced with garlic and Parmesan. It’s a one-pot dinner that’s weeknight-friendly and crowd-pleasing.

What Type of Pasta Works Best for Alfredo?

Rigatoni is a top pick because of its tube shape and ridges that trap every bit of that luscious Alfredo sauce. However, if you’re out of rigatoni, penne, fettuccine, or even rotini can work as alternatives. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds onto the sauce well so you get that creamy bite every time.

Ingredients for the Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

To build layers of flavor in this recipe, we stick with a handful of kitchen staples that create a rich, creamy, and balanced dish.

• Rigatoni Pasta
• Chicken Breast
• Salt and Pepper
• Olive Oil
• Garlic
• Heavy Cream
• Butter
• Parmesan Cheese
• Parsley

Each ingredient has a purpose. Rigatoni provides texture and soaks in sauce. Chicken breast is lean yet hearty and picks up all the creamy notes. Salt and pepper build foundational flavor. Olive oil helps brown the chicken beautifully. Garlic infuses the cream with boldness. Heavy cream and butter bring luxurious richness, and Parmesan sharpens the sauce. Finally, parsley adds a fresh finish.

How To Make the Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and slice into strips.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring constantly until it melts and the sauce thickens. If needed, loosen the sauce with a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni and sliced chicken back into the pan. Stir to coat everything in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Let it heat through for a couple of minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

This hearty pasta dish serves about 4 generous portions, perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch the next day. Serve it straight from the skillet for that cozy, rustic feel.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce.

What to Serve With Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, buttery on the inside—perfect for soaking up every bit of Alfredo.

Caesar Salad

The crunchy lettuce and zesty dressing offer a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple sheet-pan side that adds nutrients and texture.

Sautéed Green Beans

Quick to make and full of bright, fresh flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.

Caprese Salad

Tomato, basil, and mozzarella offer a cool and juicy bite alongside the warm pasta.

Lemon Asparagus

A zesty side that lifts the whole meal with citrusy notes.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness and complements the garlic and Parmesan.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo, you might want to explore more pasta-based comfort dishes. Here are some favorites from Luna Meals:

• Try our Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a meatier twist.
• Get cozy with our Creamy Mushroom Ravioli Recipe for an earthy, cheesy pasta option.
• If you’re looking for a lighter bite, the Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken brings brightness and lean protein to your plate.
• Craving bold flavors? Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers a spicy, saucy kick.

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I love hearing how everyone makes these dishes their own. Did you use grilled chicken or leftover rotisserie? Did you sneak in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes? Let me know in the comments!

Explore more homestyle dinners, cozy comfort recipes, and health-boosting bites over on Luna Meals on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo is a true classic that delivers every single time. It’s satisfying, indulgent, and just what you need after a long day. With minimal prep and major payoff, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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