Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta

Published: June 15, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible taste that enhances the chicken and pasta.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course for dinner or as a hearty lunch option; it fits any meal plan.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors and creamy texture make this dish a favorite among both kids and adults.
Quick Cooking Time: You can have this delightful meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Gather these items before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet is crucial for searing the chicken to perfection while allowing you to create the creamy sauce in the same pan.
Pot for boiling pasta: A sturdy pot is necessary for cooking the rigatoni evenly, ensuring it’s al dente.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for balancing flavors, especially when working with seasonings like Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

8 oz rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic (if desired) and sauté briefly until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream (or a suitable plant-based alternative) along with grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the drained rigatoni into the skillet with the creamy sauce; toss to coat evenly.
Slice the rested chicken breasts and serve over the creamy rigatoni.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta! Don’t forget to check back for more tasty recipes like this one!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta

Serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta is a delicious experience best enjoyed with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
Caesar Salad: A classic choice with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing that complements the pasta well.

Add Some Crunch

Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for an irresistible crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers roasted to perfection add color and texture.

Complementing Beverages

Sparkling Water: A crisp sparkling water with lemon or lime enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
Herbal Iced Tea: A chilled herbal iced tea can be a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta

To achieve the best results when making Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in taste.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking rigatoni just until it’s al dente will ensure it holds up well in the creamy sauce.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less seasoning and adjust as you go for better flavor control.
Rest the Chicken: Allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta

To make your meal more satisfying, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta.

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and vital nutrients to your plate.
Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic complement the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings a touch of elegance to your meal.
Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers of mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing bite.
Zucchini Noodles: Swap out traditional noodles for zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative that still satisfies.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and feta provides great texture and nutrition.

Feel free to try these suggestions next time you serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta! For more delicious recipes like this one, keep following my blog!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta, avoid these common mistakes.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Always use Italian seasoning generously to enhance the taste.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and test for al dente texture.
Using low-quality cheese: Cheap Parmesan cheese lacks flavor. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, more authentic taste.
Ignoring rest time for chicken: Cutting into chicken right after cooking can make it dry. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Not mixing the sauce properly: If you don’t combine the sauce and pasta thoroughly, some bites may be dry. Make sure to toss them well together for even distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta

Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta.

Can I use different pasta types?

Yes! You can substitute rigatoni with penne or farfalle. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta or adding more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

What sides pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken With Creamy Rigatoni Pasta?

Fresh salads or steamed vegetables complement this dish wonderfully. Garlic bread is also a classic choice!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook and store everything separately and combine just before serving for fresh flavors.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Rigatoni Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different proteins like turkey or beef. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, so give it a try!

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