When you’re in the mood for something ultra-comforting and rich with flavor, Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken hits all the right notes. This dish brings together tender pasta, gooey cheese, and golden garlic chicken into one hearty and satisfying meal. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or a crowd-pleasing potluck, this recipe never disappoints.

The rigatoni, with its ridges and tube-like shape, holds onto every bit of that creamy, cheesy sauce. Pair it with seasoned chicken that’s been seared to golden perfection in a buttery garlic-parmesan coating, and you’ve got a dish that begs for seconds. If you’re someone who loves both cheesy pasta and juicy, flavorful chicken, this combination is going to be your new obsession.

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

This dish is the ultimate marriage of flavor and texture. The rigatoni stays firm but tender, giving a satisfying bite. The cheesy sauce is smooth and coats every noodle beautifully. Add to that the crispy golden edges of the chicken, seasoned with garlic and parmesan, and you get a harmony of flavors that’s comforting yet exciting.

Plus, it comes together with minimal fuss using ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for weeknights or weekend indulgence.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cheesy Chicken Pasta?

Rigatoni is the star of this recipe for good reason. Its sturdy shape holds up well to thick, cheesy sauces, and the ridges trap that rich flavor in every bite. But if you can’t find rigatoni, you can substitute with penne or ziti. Just make sure whatever pasta you choose is hearty enough to handle the weight of the sauce and chicken without going mushy.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

To build the layers of rich flavor in this dish, each ingredient plays a specific role. The chicken needs to be seasoned and seared perfectly, while the pasta and cheese work together to create a creamy, satisfying base. The result is a meal that’s both indulgent and incredibly comforting.

Rigatoni
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Parmesan cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Garlic cloves
Butter
Heavy cream
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil
Italian seasoning
Chicken broth
Flour (for dredging the chicken)

Each ingredient is key: rigatoni provides the perfect base for soaking up sauce, chicken breasts add a hearty protein, and parmesan and mozzarella create a gooey, flavorful cheese blend. Garlic, butter, and Italian seasoning bring out those aromatic and savory notes, while heavy cream and chicken broth make the sauce rich and creamy.

How To Make the Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Season and Dredge the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Lightly dredge each piece in flour so they get a golden crust when cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and a bit of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, boil the rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add more butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer gently, then add grated parmesan and mozzarella. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni into the sauce and toss to coat. Slice the chicken and layer it over the pasta. Sprinkle a bit of extra parmesan on top and let everything heat through for a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Dish up the cheesy rigatoni and garlic parmesan chicken while hot and melty. A little fresh parsley or basil on top adds a nice touch if you have it!

Serving and Storing Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people generously, depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for family dinners or to impress friends with a homemade comfort food feast. Serve it straight from the skillet while the cheese is gooey and the sauce is velvety.

If you have leftovers, they store beautifully. Place any remaining pasta and chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream before warming it up in a skillet or microwave. This helps revive that luscious, creamy texture without drying it out.

What to Serve With Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up every last bit of that cheesy sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad brings a fresh, tangy contrast that balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

The mild bitterness of roasted broccoli cuts through the creamy sauce perfectly and adds color to your plate.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a light and vibrant note that pairs well with the pasta.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

A quick saute in olive oil with fresh garlic adds a healthy green side that matches the garlic tones of the dish.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy glazed carrots make for a colorful and surprising complement.

Antipasto Skewers

For a fun appetizer, try skewers of olives, marinated artichokes, and salami. They add a zesty Italian flair.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Soup and pasta? Absolutely. A small bowl of tomato basil soup makes this meal feel like a restaurant favorite.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re head over heels for this Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you’ll definitely want to check out these delicious meals next:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a meaty and creamy classic.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you’re short on time but crave comfort.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a rich, savory twist on Alfredo night.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta that delivers smoky flavor and easy cleanup.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce when you’re craving a pasta bake with lots of cheese.

These pasta dinners are perfect for anyone who appreciates a good, hearty meal and loves trying new takes on traditional favorites.

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 add mushrooms or swap the cream for a lighter version? Did you throw in some red pepper flakes for heat?

I love hearing how others put their own twist on it. Questions are welcome too – let’s make cooking together even more fun.

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