Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

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Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce is one of those pasta dishes that instantly wraps you up in a warm, cozy hug. Imagine tender pieces of chicken pan-seared in a garlic butter bath, nestled into rigatoni pasta, and coated in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce that clings to every bite. Then, it all gets baked until bubbly and golden with a generous layer of gooey cheese on top.

This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s a craving-satisfying experience. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or serving guests for a casual weekend dinner, this recipe brings the flavor and comfort that people remember. It’s the kind of pasta that makes you want to go back for seconds (and thirds).

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

There’s a perfect balance between indulgent and simple in this dish. The garlic butter adds depth, the Alfredo sauce delivers creaminess, and the cheese gives you that irresistible pull. It’s incredibly easy to make yet impressive enough to feel like something special. Plus, it feeds a crowd and makes amazing leftovers.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

Rigatoni is ideal because its ridges hold onto the Alfredo sauce, letting you savor the full flavor with every bite. If you don’t have rigatoni, penne or ziti are excellent substitutes. Just be sure to pick a pasta shape with structure to trap all that garlicky, creamy goodness.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

This pasta recipe relies on a handful of rich, flavorful ingredients that come together in harmony. Each one plays an important role in building up that creamy, cheesy, garlicky bite that makes this dish a favorite.

• Rigatoni pasta
• Chicken breast or thighs
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic cloves
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Cream cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, add more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes. Stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Toss the cooked rigatoni and sliced chicken into the Alfredo sauce, coating everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and serve hot straight from the oven.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

This rich and filling rigatoni dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home. It comfortably feeds 6 people and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. To store leftovers, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave with a splash of cream or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little cream or milk to keep it luscious.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

Crusty garlic bread is a classic pairing. It soaks up every bit of Alfredo sauce and completes the carb-lover’s dream.

Simple Green Salad

A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy. The mild bitterness balances the creamy pasta.

Sautéed Spinach

Garlic-sautéed spinach makes a simple yet flavorful green side dish that works with the garlic notes in the pasta.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze gives you a burst of summer to lighten the meal.

Balsamic Mushrooms

Quickly sautéed mushrooms with balsamic vinegar and thyme complement the earthy depth of the Alfredo.

Grilled Asparagus

Charred asparagus spears bring a smoky, crisp element that contrasts beautifully with the pasta.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

Sometimes a clean, citrusy sip is the best palate cleanser between bites of cheesy, garlicky goodness.

Want More Pasta Recipes with Cheesy Comfort?

If this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce hit the spot, you’re going to love these other cheesy, hearty favorites from the blog:

• Cheesy Baked Ziti for the ultimate baked pasta comfort.
• Creamy Cajun Linguine with just the right amount of kick.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a cozy classic.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini when you want Mexican meets Italian.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine for a lighter twist with zesty brightness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding extra herbs? A different cheese blend? Or even a bit of heat?

I love hearing how others bring their own spin to these dishes. And if you have questions while making it, don’t hesitate to ask—let’s make cooking easier together.

Explore more delicious comfort food and weeknight dinner inspiration on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce is more than a recipe; it’s a dinner experience. Rich, cheesy, and layered with garlic flavor, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again. Whether it’s a chilly night or a special occasion, it brings that home-cooked comfort every time.

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