Save A comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni. Ideal for a cozy weeknight meal or entertaining guests.
The first time I made this creamy chicken rigatoni, my kitchen was filled with the scents of garlic and Parmesan melting together. It quickly became a go-to meal when I want something comforting but impressive for friends and family.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) rigatoni
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 350 g / 12 oz), cut into bite-sized pieces, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (80 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional), salt and pepper (to taste)
- Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook Rigatoni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Sauté Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Make Roux:
- Sprinkle flour over the garlic. Whisk for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Add Dairy:
- Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season with more salt and pepper as needed. Simmer until sauce thickens, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Finish Dish:
- Return cooked chicken to skillet. Add drained rigatoni, tossing to coat, and add reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save This is one of those dinners my family requests over and over. Everyone loves gathering at the table with steaming bowls and sharing stories about their day.
Variations & Substitutions
Try adding sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach for extra vegetable goodness, or substitute cooked rotisserie chicken if you are short on time.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a complete meal.
Allergen & Nutrition
Contains wheat and dairy. Each serving has approximately 630 calories, 27 g total fat, 62 g carbohydrates, 38 g protein.
Save Enjoy the comforting flavors with your favorite people, and let this creamy pasta recipe become a staple in your kitchen.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best with this dish?
Rigatoni is preferred as its ridges catch the creamy sauce well, but penne or ziti can be good substitutes.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
Adjust thickness by varying the amount of milk or reserved pasta water; simmer longer to thicken, add more liquid to thin.
- → Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, cook and season the chicken in advance, then warm it with the sauce when ready to serve.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor best?
Dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme complement the garlic and Parmesan beautifully.
- → Are there any good garnishes to add?
Chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan add freshness and boost the savory notes of the dish.