Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: A Delicious & Easy Recipe. This comforting pasta meal brings together juicy, tender chicken with a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to every rigatoni tube. It’s flavorful yet effortlessly simple, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress without the stress. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of savory herbs, a hint of spice, and that irresistible cheesy goodness that makes this recipe an instant favorite in any household.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in flavor and texture, coming together to create a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Each component plays a vital role in balancing the richness and brightness of the final meal.

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for tender, juicy chicken that blends seamlessly with the pasta.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps season and sear the chicken to golden perfection.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle, savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a Mediterranean herbaceous note to the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick that livens up the creamy sauce.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for balanced seasoning throughout.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté garlic for a fragrant aroma.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that garlicky base in the sauce.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine: (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio recommended) Used to deglaze the pan and add complexity.
• 2 cups heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, creating a luscious, velvety texture.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth without overpowering the creaminess.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Integral for that iconic nutty, salty kick.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, zesty contrast to the creamy sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a pinch lifts the sauce with subtle warmth.
• 1 lb rigatoni pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully.
• Salt for pasta water: To season the pasta from within
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese: For garnishing and added flavor at serving.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For a bright finishing touch.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, to sprinkle on top for those who love an extra hint of heat.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken pieces in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, optional red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. This simple mix infuses the chicken with flavor before cooking, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned and delicious.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken in a single layer. Sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes until the outside is golden and the inside reaches that juicy 165°F. This step locks in the moisture and gives the chicken a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Cooking for just about a minute releases an intoxicating aroma that forms the fragrant base of your sauce without burning.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and scrape up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. The wine adds a subtle acidity and complexity that balances the richness of the cream perfectly. Let it simmer and reduce slightly, concentrating those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Add Cream and Broth

Next, stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. This gentle simmer develops the lush, velvety sauce that will coat your rigatoni beautifully. Reducing the heat to low helps the sauce thicken without boiling away the creaminess.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, gently thickening and melding flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking — this is when magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a decadent sauce.

Step 7: Incorporate Parmesan and Season

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a pinch of nutmeg. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste. This final touch brightens and deepens the sauce’s flavor, making it irresistibly savory and aromatic.

Step 8: Boil Water & Cook Pasta

While your sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, following package instructions for perfect texture that holds firm to the creamy sauce.

Step 9: Reserve Pasta Water and Drain

Before draining, save one cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later, helping it stick wonderfully to the rigatoni.

Step 10: Combine Chicken, Sauce, and Pasta

Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce, stirring to coat each piece. Then add your drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, incorporating reserved pasta water gradually to get that ideal creamy consistency that clings to every rigatoni tube.

Step 11: Serve Immediately

Serve your Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: A Delicious & Easy Recipe piping hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. This dish is best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate creamy indulgence.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese are classic garnishes that brighten up the dish and add texture contrast. A few red pepper flakes can add a subtle spice boost if you enjoy a little heat, creating more layers of flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing counterbalance. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans also complement the dish by adding crunch and vibrant color.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in deep bowls to keep the sauce beautifully pooled around each rigatoni, or try layering it in a casserole dish for a baked version topped with extra Parmesan for a crispy golden crust. For a fun twist, garnish with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil to elevate the dish’s richness even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal. Just keep the pasta tightly sealed to preserve moisture and taste.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: A Delicious & Easy Recipe, it’s best to freeze the sauce and cooked chicken separately from the pasta to avoid mushy noodles. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Stir frequently to prevent the cream sauce from separating, and ensure the chicken warms through evenly for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, other tube-shaped or ridged pastas like penne, ziti, or even shells work wonderfully as well.

Is it okay to substitute the white wine?

Yes, if you prefer not to cook with wine, you can swap it for extra chicken broth and a small squeeze of lemon juice to mimic that slight acidity and depth of flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Chicken thighs are a great option for a juicier, more flavorful protein. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through and tender.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten the dish, try substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream and reducing the butter to two tablespoons. You can also increase the amount of fresh parsley and add more vegetables for added freshness.

Will the sauce thicken after refrigeration?

Yes, the sauce does thicken when chilled. When reheating, simply add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it back to your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni: A Delicious & Easy Recipe is one of those dishes that brings both comfort and delight every single time you make it. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. I genuinely can’t wait for you to try it—it’s sure to become your go-to recipe for any pasta craving or when you want a quick but satisfying homemade meal that feels special.

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