Description
If you’re looking for a quick dinner that delivers comfort and flavor, this creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is your answer. Tender chunks of chicken, golden and seasoned, come together with a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite of rigatoni. It’s the perfect go-to meal for a cozy weeknight or when you want to impress with little effort. Whether you’re hunting for quick dinner ideas, easy pasta recipes, or food ideas that satisfy the whole family, this dish checks every box. It’s hearty, delicious, and packed with classic Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Stir in garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked rigatoni. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.
8. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much after combining everything.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: garlic chicken pasta, creamy chicken pasta, easy dinner, pasta recipes