Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta coated in a velvety sauce and packed with tender, juicy chicken. This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is a rich and flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. It’s the kind of dinner you make when you want to impress but also want to keep things cozy.

Rigatoni, with its deep ridges and thick tubes, is the perfect match for this decadent sauce made from garlic-infused butter and cream. Each bite delivers a satisfying blend of savory chicken, aromatic herbs, and a creamy base that clings to every groove of the pasta. It’s indulgent, sure, but also beautifully balanced, making it a true weeknight winner.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

This dish is everything a good pasta recipe should be: creamy, garlicky, buttery, and filling. The chicken soaks up the flavor of the garlic butter as it cooks, and the rigatoni acts like a sponge for the luscious sauce. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that doesn’t skimp on comfort or taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan style dish that saves you cleanup time without sacrificing depth of flavor.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

While any rigatoni will work, bronze-cut rigatoni is ideal if you can find it. The slightly rough texture helps grip the sauce better, ensuring every bite is packed with garlicky, buttery richness. If you’re going gluten-free, opt for a chickpea or rice-based version. Just be sure not to overcook it—you want it al dente so it can hold up to the creamy sauce without turning mushy.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

When it comes to building rich flavor in a creamy pasta dish like this, every ingredient pulls its weight. The combination of garlic, butter, cream, and well-seasoned chicken creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the rigatoni. Each ingredient is there for a reason—to elevate the texture, deepen the flavor, or add a subtle kick of richness.

• Rigatoni pasta
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove and slice.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and let simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and silky.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss everything together. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

This creamy rigatoni is best served hot and fresh, right out of the pan. The sauce is at its peak richness when it’s warm, perfectly clinging to the pasta. It’s hearty enough to be served as a standalone dinner, but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. The rigatoni will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. This recipe feeds about 4 hungry people.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

A simple green salad helps balance the richness of the dish and adds freshness.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy and golden on the outside, soft and buttery inside—a classic side for creamy pasta.

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds a clean contrast and some healthy greens.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges and slightly bitter notes complement the creamy sauce well.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic make a refreshing pairing.

Sauteed Green Beans

Crisp-tender and lightly seasoned, green beans bring a crunchy counterpoint.

Lemon Asparagus

The citrusy notes in lemon asparagus cut through the creaminess with ease.

A Glass of Chardonnay

For those who enjoy wine, a buttery Chardonnay is a dreamy match.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If creamy pasta is your comfort food love language, then you’ll want to explore these flavorful dishes next:

• Try the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine for a zesty citrus spin on creamy chicken pasta.
• The One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is packed with smoky heat and all cooked in one pan.
• Craving a little Tex-Mex flair? Go for the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini that’s spicy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
• For a retro classic with flair, Creamy Chicken and Broccoli is your feel-good favorite.

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 double the garlic or add mushrooms? Maybe a handful of spinach at the end?

I love hearing how you personalize each dish. Your tweaks often inspire others to try something new, so don’t hold back!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, pasta creations, and more on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest. Discover your new go-to for comfort meals and indulgent bites: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is that perfect mix of richness, texture, and flavor that always satisfies. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dish delivers every time. With just a handful of staple ingredients and easy steps, it turns an ordinary evening into something special. Add it to your rotation and enjoy pasta night with a garlicky, buttery twist.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?