Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

If you are craving a comforting dinner that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant, this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture perfectly seared chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce made from cream, Parmesan, and a hint of white wine, all tossed with al dente rigatoni that holds every bit of that silky goodness. This dish is a beautiful balance of bold flavors and creamy textures that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your family favorites to whip up again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish sing. They’re simple and easy-to-find staples that come together magically in your kitchen.

• Chicken breasts (1.5 lbs, cut into 1-inch pieces): Tender protein that soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For seasoning the chicken and a subtle fruity depth.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) and onion powder (1 teaspoon): Classic seasoning duo that adds savory warmth.
• Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a hint of herbal freshness to the chicken.
• Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning every element perfectly.
• Butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a rich base for the sauce and helps sauté the garlic.
• Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): For an aromatic and flavorful punch.
• Dry white wine (1/2 cup): Adds acidity and depth, helping balance the creaminess.
• Heavy cream (2 cups): The luscious backbone of the sauce, making it perfectly creamy.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory notes and helps thin the sauce just right.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup, plus more for serving): Adds sharpness and melts into a beautiful, cheesy sauce.
• Fresh parsley (1/2 cup, chopped): Brings a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle warm spice that elevates the cream sauce.
• Rigatoni pasta (1 lb): Perfectly sized tubes that hold onto the sauce inside and out.
• Salt for pasta water: To season the pasta as it cooks for maximum flavor.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing those bite-sized chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. This simple but important step ensures every piece is bursting with flavor before it even hits the pan. Make sure each piece is coated evenly for the best taste in every bite.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken in batches so they get a nice golden-brown crust without overcrowding. Each piece only needs about 3-4 minutes per side until it’s perfectly cooked through. The beautiful searing locks in juices, making the chicken tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. A quick sauté for about a minute releases that irresistible aroma that’s the heart of many great dishes. This step builds the flavor foundation for the creamy sauce you’re about to create.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the dry white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits left from the chicken cooking. This deglazing deepens the flavor of the sauce with vibrant acidity while adding complexity that perfectly balances the richness.

Step 5: Add Cream and Broth

Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the sauce up to a gentle simmer, which starts to thicken the mixture and blend all those beautiful flavors together in a smooth and inviting way.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

Letting the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes allows it to reach that perfect creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce silky and prevent sticking—this stage is where the magic truly happens.

Step 7: Incorporate Parmesan and Season

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a pinch of nutmeg. These finishing touches add cheesy sharpness, fresh greenness, and a subtle warmth that elevate the whole dish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8: Boil Water

While the sauce is thickening, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Properly salted pasta water is key to seasoning the rigatoni as it cooks.

Step 9: Cook Pasta

Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente—tender but with just a little bite for great texture.

Step 10: Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining, scoop out about a cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon to loosen the sauce if needed, helping it cling to every rigatoni tube beautifully.

Step 11: Drain Pasta

Drain the rigatoni but don’t rinse it; keeping the pasta surface rough helps the sauce stick better.

Step 12: Add Chicken to Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat those tender morsels in the luscious sauce, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 13: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the sauce to your preferred consistency. This step ties all the components together in an irresistible creamy embrace.

Step 14: Serve Immediately

Serve this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe piping hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. The moment you dish this beauty out, you’ll see how irresistible it looks and tastes.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh grated Parmesan and chopped parsley on top brighten the dish both in taste and presentation. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely color contrast and optional heat that dances on your tongue.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty focaccia are perfect if you want to soak up every drop of that incredible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the rigatoni’s saucy goodness or bake it briefly under a broiler with extra Parmesan for a bubbly golden crust. For entertaining, spoon the pasta into individual small bowls garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making for a fantastic next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions if needed. Cool completely before transferring to freezer containers. Use within 1-2 months for best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to maintain that creamy texture and warm evenly. Microwave works too but watch carefully to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s ridges and hollow centers are perfect for holding the sauce, penne, ziti, or even farfalle can work wonderfully. Just cook according to package directions and adjust sauce consistency if needed.

What can I substitute for white wine in the sauce?

If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute dry white wine with extra chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. The flavor won’t be exactly the same but will still be delicious and well balanced.

Is there a way to lighten up this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe?

Yes! Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly to make a lighter version. Also, consider adding some steamed spinach or peas for extra veggies and nutrients.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely. Use your favorite gluten-free rigatoni or pasta alternative. Just be sure to check that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well. The creamy sauce remains just as delightful.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken will be juicy and tender with no pink inside when fully cooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into a piece to check.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Recipe has truly won a special place in my heart and kitchen, and I hope it will in yours too. It’s comfort food elevated with fresh ingredients and simple techniques, making it a memorable meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this recipe will bring smiles and full plates. Give it a try—you just might discover your new go-to pasta dish.

Print