Description
Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Alfredo Sauce is a delightful meal that combines tender chicken, rich cheeses, and creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta: 12 oz (340 g)
- Chicken breast: 1 lb (450 g), diced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (56 g)
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100 g), grated
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g), shredded
- Black pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt: to taste
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and cook the diced chicken seasoned with salt and black pepper for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Adjust the sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add the cooked rigatoni and sautéed chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the mixture, cover, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- For a spicy twist, season chicken with cayenne pepper or add jalapeños to the garlic.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken, Rigatoni, Alfredo Sauce, Comfort Food