Save to Pinterest A comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni. Ideal for a cozy weeknight meal or entertaining guests.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at our house because it brings together all the flavors my family loves: creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and hearty pasta in every bite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) rigatoni
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 350 g / 12 oz), cut into bite-sized pieces, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (80 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional), salt and pepper, to taste
- Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Cook Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Create Roux:
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Add Dairy:
- Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer until the sauce thickens, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained rigatoni and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save to Pinterest One night after soccer practice, my kids requested seconds because they loved how the creamy sauce clung to the rigatoni and chicken bites. It instantly became a requested comfort dish at our family table.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, whisk, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (dairy). Always verify product labels for possible traces of egg.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 630 calories, 27 g total fat, 62 g carbohydrates, 38 g protein
Save to Pinterest Enjoy creamy chicken rigatoni with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra cheese on top for true comfort. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad.
Ask About This Recipe
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce gently to reduce excess liquid and whisk continuously after adding flour to create a smooth roux that thickens evenly.
- → What pasta works best in this dish?
Rigatoni is ideal as its ridges hold the creamy sauce well, but penne or ziti are great alternatives.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, cook components separately and combine just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook chicken pieces over medium-high heat until golden but still juicy, about 5–7 minutes, avoiding overcooking.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Sautéed mushrooms or fresh baby spinach can be stirred into the sauce for added taste and texture.
- → Is there a recommended wine pairing?
A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy garlic and parmesan flavors wonderfully.