Description

Cheesy Rigatoni with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish featuring tender garlic-parmesan seared chicken served over rigatoni coated in a rich, cheesy sauce made with parmesan, mozzarella, and cream. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

1 lb rigatoni pasta

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon butter

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a light coating of grated parmesan.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt the butter with a little olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Simmer until the sauce becomes smooth and thickened.
Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the cheesy rigatoni. Garnish with chopped parsley, extra parmesan, and cracked black pepper before serving.

Notes

Use penne, ziti, or fettuccine as substitutes for rigatoni.

Half-and-half or whole milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Grate your own cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.

Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 690
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 48g
Cholesterol: 155mg