Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort meal that turns a regular weeknight into something special. With rich flavors, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender, juicy chicken coated in a silky, garlicky sauce, this dish is as indulgent as it is satisfying. It strikes that perfect balance between creamy and savory without feeling too heavy.

The garlic butter base brings a warm, homemade feel that pairs beautifully with the hearty rigatoni, soaking up all the creamy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this easy yet decadent pasta dish is one you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This recipe is one of those perfect go-tos when you want something rich and flavorful but still easy to whip together. The creamy garlic sauce coats the rigatoni so well, and every bite delivers comforting notes of butter, herbs, and golden seared chicken. It tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant, but with the ease of a one-pan home-cooked dinner.

Rigatoni is a great pasta for creamy sauces because the ridges hold onto all the goodness. This dish doesn’t just deliver on taste but also on texture, which makes it feel hearty and complete.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully in this dish, depending on your preference. Breasts offer a leaner bite while thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor. Whichever you choose, be sure to season and sear them well for that golden crust that adds another layer of taste to the creamy garlic sauce.

If you’re short on time, you can even use rotisserie chicken. Just shred and toss it in during the final few minutes to warm through with the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

When it comes to making this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, each ingredient plays a key role in building up the rich flavor and creamy texture. Simple pantry staples come together to create a restaurant-quality dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare.

Rigatoni
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Butter
Garlic cloves
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Chicken broth
Fresh parsley

The rigatoni is perfect for holding the creamy garlic sauce thanks to its ridged surface. Chicken provides the hearty, protein-rich element that pairs perfectly with the butter and cream. Butter is essential here—it’s the base for our garlic sauce and gives the dish its signature richness.

Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with bold flavor. Heavy cream creates that dreamy, velvety texture, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty depth. A dash of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper, balances the flavors beautifully.

You’ll need olive oil to get that perfect golden sear on your chicken, and chicken broth helps deglaze the pan and round out the sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds color and brightness.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Recipe 2

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Return it to the skillet and toss in the cooked rigatoni. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and more grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is rich, filling, and made to serve four generous portions. It’s perfect as a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for casual guests. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley to elevate the flavors right before serving.

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring back the sauciness. It also freezes well for up to a month, though the texture of the sauce might change slightly upon thawing.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

The classic choice. Toasted slices of garlic bread are perfect for sopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crispness of romaine and the tangy Caesar dressing balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple side of roasted broccoli brings some welcome greenery and crunch to the meal.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze pair beautifully with the buttery flavors.

Sautéed Spinach

Quick and light, sautéed spinach with a touch of garlic complements the dish without overpowering it.

Antipasto Platter

A pre-dinner board of olives, cheeses, and cured meats adds an Italian touch and keeps guests nibbling while the pasta finishes.

Red Wine

A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir is a cozy match for the creamy, garlicky notes of the dish.

Lemon Asparagus

Lightly steamed or roasted with a squeeze of lemon, asparagus adds a bright finish that refreshes the palate.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, here are a few other comforting and creamy pasta dishes you might want to try next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for that ultra-savory, beefy flavor in every bite.

• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta if you’re looking for something easy and made in just one pot.

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a rich take on Alfredo night.

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a cheesy, meaty twist that feels indulgent and fun.

• One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky depth of flavor packed into every forkful.

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 use chicken breasts or thighs? Add a little red pepper for heat?

I love hearing how you customize these recipes in your own kitchens. Feel free to share your tips or ask a question if you’re not sure about something.

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