If you are craving a creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting pasta dinner, then this Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Every forkful offers tender chicken coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly tossed with al dente rigatoni and smothered in a luscious blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy yet is surprisingly easy to make, combining simple ingredients that come together to create a truly unforgettable dish. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this recipe brings warmth and joy straight to the table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture in this Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo Recipe. Each item plays an essential role, from the creamy richness of the heavy cream to the sharp nuttiness of Parmesan, all working together to deliver comfort in every bite.
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts (Diced): Tender protein that absorbs the sauce beautifully and keeps the dish hearty.
- 8 oz Rigatoni Pasta: Sturdy tubes that hold the creamy sauce inside for maximum flavor in every mouthful; penne or ziti are great alternatives.
- 2 tbsp Salted Butter: Adds a velvety richness to the sauce and helps cook the chicken to golden perfection.
- 3 cloves Fresh Garlic (Minced): The aromatic backbone, elevating the buttery sauce with zing and depth.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious and silky Alfredo base; half-and-half or non-dairy cream work well too.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated): Brings sharp, nutty flavor that melts into the cream for classic Alfredo taste.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded): For gooey, melty topping that turns golden and bubbly under the broiler.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Pepper to taste: Adds just a touch of heat and complexity.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Optional): A fresh, herbaceous garnish to brighten every creamy bite.
How to Make Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water — this ensures your rigatoni pasta will be perfectly seasoned on its own. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10 to 12 minutes. Once cooked, drain it thoroughly but save a small cup of the pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced chicken breasts, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and sauté until the pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in flavorful juiciness and creates a beautiful sear that adds texture.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add any remaining butter along with the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma — this is the moment the sauce starts to shine. Be careful not to let the garlic burn; a gentle sizzle is all you need.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Alfredo Base
Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently but continuously for 2 to 3 minutes while it warms. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes silky smooth. This rich, cheesy base is where all the magic happens, and it clings perfectly to the chicken and pasta.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Rigatoni with Sauce
Return the sautéed chicken and drained rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything gently so every piece gets coated in that indulgent garlic butter Alfredo sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the consistency you love.
Step 6: Broil with Mozzarella Topping
Transfer this cheesy mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Place the dish under a high broiler for 2 to 3 minutes — watch closely until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust. This finishing touch adds that irresistible gooey layer that makes this dish truly indulgent.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the bubbling pasta right before serving. The bright green flecks not only add a pop of color but also a fresh, slightly herbal contrast to the rich flavors. Grab your fork and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese elevate the dish’s appearance and sharpness. For a subtle kick, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can be a delicious finishing touch without overwhelming the creamy base.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with crisp sides like a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli brings balance and a burst of freshness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken rigatoni Alfredo in individual mini casserole dishes or cute ramekins, topped with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a vibrant pop. If you’re entertaining, a pasta bar with toppings like toasted pine nuts, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms lets guests customize their plates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken, but a quick stir with a splash of cream or milk will bring back its creamy texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if packed in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid losing the fresh cheese’s quality, you might want to add the mozzarella topping only when reheating and broiling later.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, warm in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. To refresh the cheesy top, sprinkle mozzarella before a final 2-minute broil if your oven allows.
FAQs
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use turkey, shrimp, or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is perfectly cooked.
What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half is a lighter option that still yields a creamy sauce, and non-dairy creams are fine for those avoiding dairy. Just be mindful that the sauce may be slightly less thick but still delicious.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep the heat at medium or slightly below when sautéing garlic and watch it carefully. Garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if overcooked, so a minute or until fragrant is perfect.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the rigatoni for a gluten-free pasta variety, and ensure any substituted ingredients like broth or cheese are certified gluten-free. The creamy sauce and chicken will taste just as delightful.
Is it okay to prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare most of it in advance, such as cooking the chicken and pasta and making the sauce. Just combine and broil the mozzarella topping right before serving for the best texture and freshness.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo Recipe enough for those nights when you want something rich, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, easy enough for weeknights but fancy enough to impress guests. So go ahead, get cooking, and share this cheesy, buttery goodness with the people you love — you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring tender sautéed chicken breast pieces tossed in a rich garlic butter alfredo sauce with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta is baked until bubbly golden on top, garnished with fresh parsley for a flavorful finish. This recipe is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner that combines classic Italian flavors with ease.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts, diced (can substitute turkey or tofu)
Pasta
- 8 oz Rigatoni Pasta (can substitute penne or ziti)
Sauces & Dairy
- 2 tbsp Salted Butter (can use unsalted butter)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (can use half-and-half or non-dairy cream)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated (can substitute Pecorino Romano)
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (use fresh for extra creaminess)
Produce & Herbs
- 3 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced (can substitute garlic powder)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional; can substitute basil)
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the sautéed chicken and cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat the chicken and pasta evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
- Bake with Mozzarella: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey or tofu for variations.
- Use penne or ziti pasta if rigatoni is unavailable.
- For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or non-dairy cream alternatives.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor over pre-grated options.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to avoid burning the cheese topping.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to personal taste preferences.
