Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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There are few things more comforting than a dish that combines creamy cheese, golden pasta, and tender chicken. Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is one of those soul-satisfying meals that brings everyone to the table and leaves not a single bite behind. It’s rich, perfectly seasoned, and packed with bold flavors that feel both indulgent and completely approachable on any weeknight.

This dish strikes a beautiful balance between rustic and elegant. The rigatoni holds onto the luscious cheese sauce like a pro, and the chicken is pan-seared and tossed with a garlic parmesan mixture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re cooking for your family or sharing with friends, this pasta is the kind of recipe you make once and keep in rotation forever.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

You’ll fall for this recipe fast because it combines simplicity with decadence. The cheese sauce is ultra-creamy without feeling heavy, and the garlic-parmesan crusted chicken brings bold, satisfying flavor. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something special but don’t have time for a complicated dish. Plus, it’s a full meal on its own—no sides required if you’re in a pinch.

Another bonus? This is a great make-ahead dish. The sauce reheats beautifully, and the rigatoni keeps its bite even after a day or two in the fridge. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this recipe has you covered.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

The beauty of rigatoni is in its ridges and tube shape, making it perfect for grabbing onto every bit of that cheesy garlic sauce. For this recipe, use bronze-cut rigatoni if you can find it—its rougher surface clings better to sauces. But honestly, any high-quality rigatoni will do the trick. Just avoid overcooking it, as you want it al dente to stand up to the rich, creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Every component in this dish plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the bold garlic to the melty cheese, each ingredient is there for a reason, and together they create a dinner worth savoring.

• Rigatoni Pasta: Its sturdy, ridged shape is ideal for catching every bit of the creamy cheese sauce.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide lean, tender protein that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds a deep, aromatic base that infuses both the chicken and the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite and helps form that golden crust on the chicken.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Gives the sauce that signature melty, stretchy, cheesy pull.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the cheese sauce, adding richness and silky texture.
• Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and give depth to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to a golden-brown perfection.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties the whole dish together with warmth and complexity.

How To Make the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rigatoni in generously salted water until just al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, thin the sauce with reserved pasta water. Top with the sliced chicken and a sprinkle of extra parmesan before serving.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is as satisfying for a cozy night in as it is for impressing guests. Serve it hot, straight from the pan or plated up with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil if you’re feeling fancy. This recipe generously feeds four people, making it ideal for a family dinner or to stretch into weekday leftovers.

To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Cheesy Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

A classic pairing. Crusty, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that cheesy sauce.

Simple Arugula Salad

Add some brightness to your plate with a peppery arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli with a touch of garlic and olive oil complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Their sweet and tangy profile adds contrast to the creamy dish.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, tender mushrooms add umami and depth.

Tomato Basil Soup

Serve a small cup on the side for an Italian comfort food experience.

Red Wine

A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with the parmesan and garlic notes in the dish.

Lemon Sorbet

Finish with a clean, light dessert that refreshes the palate after a creamy pasta meal.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll definitely want to try these flavor-packed dishes next:

• Creamy Cajun Linguine for a smoky, spicy twist.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti that’s rich, comforting, and perfect for leftovers.
• One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta to keep it easy and packed with bold southern flavors.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini when you’re craving Tex-Mex meets Italian.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for something hearty with a hint of green.

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I always love hearing how your meals turn out! Did you go extra cheesy or spice up the chicken? Let me know in the comments what you tried or if you made your own fun twist.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and delicious meal ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good food!

Conclusion

Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of dish that proves simple ingredients can come together to create something unforgettable. With its tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and pasta that hugs every flavor, it’s comfort food that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re feeding your family or just need a bowl of something warm and satisfying, this recipe will always have your back.

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