Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

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By Directorios Zulianos

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni: A Comforting Delight

Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that satisfies the whole family? This Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni recipe is the perfect choice! Combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and adaptable for various dietary needs.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on a budget, or a working professional short on time, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Plus, it’s high in protein and customizable—swap ingredients to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or lower in carbs.

The aromatic garlic butter sauce coats every bite, making this dish irresistibly creamy yet light. Serve it as a weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or even for entertaining guests. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore why this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni recipe deserves a spot in your cooking rotation!


Benefits and Advantages of Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

Why should you make this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni recipe? Here’s why it stands out:

1. Quick & Easy for Busy Schedules

  • Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens.

2. Nutrient-Dense & Balanced

  • Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health.
  • Whole wheat or gluten-free rigatoni adds fiber.
  • Garlic and herbs boost immunity and add antioxidants.

3. Versatile for Dietary Needs

  • Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta.
  • Dairy-free? Substitute butter with olive oil and nutritional yeast.
  • Low-carb? Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

4. Family-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing

  • Kids and adults alike love the creamy, garlicky flavors.
  • Easily doubled for meal prep or gatherings.

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni dish is more than just a meal—it’s a flavorful, wholesome, and stress-free solution for any occasion!


Ingredients Overview

Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose/Benefit |
|———————-|—————-|——————-|
| Boneless chicken breast | 1 lb (450g) | Lean protein, cooks quickly |
| Rigatoni pasta | 12 oz (340g) | Holds sauce well, hearty texture |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Rich, creamy base for sauce |
| Garlic | 5 cloves (minced) | Bold flavor, immune-boosting |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Enhances depth of flavor |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | Adds creaminess (sub with coconut milk for dairy-free) |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup (grated) | Umami flavor (omit for vegan) |
| Fresh parsley | ¼ cup (chopped) | Fresh finish, adds color |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Balances flavors |

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or chickpea rigatoni.
  • Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil, heavy cream with coconut milk, and skip Parmesan.
  • Low-Carb: Swap pasta for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
  • Vegan: Use plant-based chicken (like seitan or tofu) and vegan butter.

How to Prepare the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Cook the Pasta:
  2. Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente (10-12 mins). Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.

  3. Sear the Chicken:

  4. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  5. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a skillet, cook chicken until golden (5-6 mins per side). Remove and slice.

  6. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  7. In the same pan, melt 3 tbsp butter, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant (1 min).
  8. Pour in chicken broth, simmer for 2 mins.
  9. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, simmer until thickened.

  10. Combine Everything:

  11. Toss pasta and chicken in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
  12. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

  13. Serve & Enjoy!

  14. Best served hot with a side of garlic bread or salad.

Mastering Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni: Advanced Tips and Variations

  • Extra Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach.
  • Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or cayenne.
  • Herb Boost: Try thyme or rosemary for depth.
  • Crispy Chicken: Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni: Best Practices

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze (without Parmesan) for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive creaminess.

Nutritional Value of Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

| Nutrient | Per Serving (1.5 cups) |
|————-|————————–|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |

Nutrition may vary based on substitutions.


FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes! Penne or fettuccine work well too.

Q: How do I make it less rich?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Yes! Cook pasta and chicken separately, then combine when reheating.


Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni recipe is a flavorful, foolproof meal that fits any lifestyle. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-worthy dish at home! 🍝✨