Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

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Golden, juicy chicken smothered in garlic butter sauce, tossed with perfectly al dente rigatoni and finished with a generous shower of parmesan cheese—this is the kind of comforting meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite. Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is bold in flavor yet simple in preparation, the perfect dish when you want something satisfying without hours in the kitchen.

The chicken is pan-seared for a beautiful crust, then finished in a skillet with garlic, butter, and a splash of reserved pasta water for extra silkiness. The rigatoni acts like a flavor sponge, soaking up all that buttery garlic richness. A dusting of freshly grated parmesan seals the deal, transforming this into a dinner that earns a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This recipe hits all the notes you want in a weeknight dinner. It’s easy, incredibly flavorful, and comes together quickly using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. The garlic butter is lush without being heavy, and the parmesan adds a savory kick that balances the whole dish.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or whipping up something quick for a cozy solo dinner, this one-pan pasta has the kind of rustic charm and reliable taste that never gets old.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully for this dish because they stay tender and juicy, even with high-heat cooking. That said, you can also use chicken breast if you prefer something leaner—just be sure to slice it thinly or pound it to an even thickness to ensure quick, even cooking. Either way, season generously and don’t skip the sear; that golden crust brings a lot of flavor to the party.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

To make this comforting pasta dish sing, each ingredient plays an essential role. From the richness of the butter to the sharpness of the parmesan, everything is about balance and depth. Use high-quality ingredients where possible—you’ll taste the difference in every bite.

• Rigatoni
• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Garlic cloves
• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional)
• Pasta water

How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season your chicken thighs or breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add unsalted butter and minced garlic cloves. Cook until fragrant and lightly golden. Deglaze the pan with a splash of pasta water, scraping up the brown bits.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss everything in the garlic butter sauce. Add more pasta water as needed for creaminess.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Turn off the heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and glossy. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and fresh parsley, if using. Serve immediately while it’s warm and silky.

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan

This dish is hearty enough to be served all on its own, but it also plays nicely with a fresh green salad or a simple vegetable side. It’s perfect for family dinners and date nights alike. This recipe comfortably serves four people, making it a satisfying and shareable meal.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta and chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to bring the sauce back to life without drying it out. It’s not ideal for freezing, as the butter sauce can separate, but it’s excellent for next-day lunches.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan?

Fresh Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds a crisp contrast.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted with olive oil and sea salt, broccoli adds earthy texture and a little charred flavor.

Garlic Bread

Double down on the garlic with warm, crispy garlic bread—perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Steamed Green Beans

Simple and light, green beans bring freshness without overpowering the main dish.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing and vibrant side.

Grilled Zucchini

Zucchini slices grilled to perfection pair naturally with the buttery pasta.

Caesar Salad

Creamy, crisp, and anchored by parmesan—a classic combo that echoes the pasta’s own cheesy notes.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the richness beautifully.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan speaks your language, you’ll love these other chicken-centric pasta recipes from the blog:

• Try this Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a creamy, sausage-loaded twist.
• Our Easy Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and satisfying one-pan meal that leans savory and comforting.
• Craving layers of flavor? The Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna brings seafood into the garlic-butter spotlight.
• Don’t miss the Copycat Starbucks Spinach Egg White Feta Wraps if you want something light yet protein-packed.
• For another cozy classic, Smothered Chicken and Rice offers soul-warming comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime!

Let me know how your version turned out. Did you go for thighs or breasts? Add a splash of cream or stick with the butter-only route?

I love hearing your twists, so feel free to share in the comments. Questions are always welcome too.

Explore more easy, flavor-packed pasta dishes and weeknight meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest — it’s where comfort meets craveable.

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