Oh, let me tell you about creamy butter chicken pasta – it’s an absolute dream on a plate! This dish combines tender chicken with rigatoni pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy parmesan sauce that makes your taste buds sing. I adore how the garlic and butter meld together with the chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that feels both comforting and decadent. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone to the table, and I often whip it up for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Trust me, once you take a bite of this creamy butter chicken pasta, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta, which holds the creamy sauce perfectly in its ridges
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, ideally at room temperature for easy melting
- 4 cloves garlic, minced finely to release their aromatic flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream, which adds that luscious, velvety texture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for the best flavor and melt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, a blend that enhances the dish’s overall taste
- Salt and pepper to taste, essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for a lovely garnish that adds color and freshness
How to Prepare Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta
Making creamy butter chicken pasta is a delightful process that’s easier than it sounds! Let’s break it down step by step so you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Cooking the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I can’t stress enough how important this step is – salting the water ensures the pasta is seasoned from the inside out! Once the water is bubbling, add the 8 oz of rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. You want that perfect bite that holds up against the creamy sauce. When done, drain the pasta but don’t rinse it; you want to keep that starchy goodness for the sauce!
Sautéing the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once it’s melted and bubbly, toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic. Here’s the trick: sauté the garlic for just 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it burn – burnt garlic can turn bitter! Next, add your diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink inside. This step creates that delicious base flavor for your creamy sauce!
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Now, let’s bring it all together! Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, letting those flavors meld beautifully. Gradually stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens! Make sure to keep stirring until the cheese fully melts into the sauce, creating that luxurious texture we all love.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add the drained rigatoni to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until every piece is well coated. If you find the sauce too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up a bit. For the finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it up right away, and get ready for the compliments!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavors: The harmonious blend of garlic, butter, and creamy parmesan sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special.
- Versatility: You can easily swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu, or even add your favorite veggies for a personalized touch.
- Comfort Food: This creamy butter chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food, guaranteed to warm your heart and soul after a long day.
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your creamy butter chicken pasta, here are some pro tips that I swear by! First, always use freshly grated Parmesan instead of the pre-packaged stuff; the flavor and meltability are on a whole other level. Don’t skip the step of salting your pasta water – it’s crucial for enhancing the overall taste. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking for a spicy kick. And if you want to change things up, try throwing in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. These little tweaks can make a big difference!
Variations on Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta
One of the best things about creamy butter chicken pasta is its versatility! If you’re in the mood for something different, try swapping the chicken for shrimp. Just sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, tofu works beautifully! Press and cube the tofu, then pan-fry it until golden for added texture.
To change up the flavor profile, experiment with herbs like fresh basil or thyme, or throw in a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a pop of color and nutrition. The possibilities are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your creamy butter chicken pasta leftovers, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a little space at the top, as the sauce may expand when frozen!
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Simply place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through, and enjoy that creamy goodness all over again!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying creamy butter chicken pasta, it’s always good to be mindful of the nutritional content! Keep in mind that the values may vary based on your specific ingredients and brands used. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This rich and satisfying dish not only pleases your palate but also provides a hearty dose of protein and flavor. Enjoy every creamy bite while being aware of your nutritional goals!
FAQ Section
Q1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this creamy butter chicken pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is fantastic for holding onto that creamy sauce, you can use penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
Q2. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes to the chicken while it cooks is a great option. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for an extra kick that’ll really wake up your taste buds!
Q3. Can I meal prep this creamy butter chicken pasta?
Yes, definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy.
Q4. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt, but add it off the heat to prevent curdling!
Q5. Is there a vegetarian version of this creamy butter chicken pasta?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu, and follow the rest of the recipe as is. You’ll still get that creamy, delicious flavor without the meat!
Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta: A Decadent Culinary Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: creamy garlic butter chicken, rigatoni, parmesan sauce, pasta recipe, chicken pasta
