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A harmonious blend of al dente pasta, tender chicken, and rich garlic butter sauce creates this Italian-American comfort dish. The sauce clings perfectly to the ridged rigatoni while Parmesan adds depth and umami.
After testing countless variations, I've found that properly seasoned chicken and al dente pasta are crucial for the best texture and flavor profile.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Choose even thickness for uniform cooking
- Rigatoni: Large tubes catch sauce perfectly
- Heavy cream: Full-fat ensures silky sauce
- Parmesan: Freshly grated melts smoothly
- Garlic: Fresh cloves only
- Butter: Unsalted allows seasoning control
- Olive oil: Extra virgin preferred
- Seasonings: Italian blend enhances flavors
Instructions
- Pasta Preparation
- Bring large pot of water to rolling boil. Add salt until water tastes like sea water. Cook rigatoni 2 minutes less than package directions. Reserve 1 cup cooking water before draining.
- Chicken Seasoning
- Pat chicken completely dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika. Let rest 5 minutes for seasonings to adhere.
- Chicken Cooking
- Heat pan until oil shimmers. Cook chicken without moving for 4-5 minutes. Turn once. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Sauce Development
- Melt butter in same pan. Add minced garlic, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Cook until fragrant but not brown.
- Sauce Building
- Add broth, scraping browned bits. Simmer 2 minutes. Add cream, stirring constantly. Let thicken slightly. Whisk in Parmesan until smooth.
- Final Assembly
- Return chicken to pan. Add pasta, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
- Temperature Check
- Ensure sauce reaches 165°F for food safety. Adjust heat as needed.
- Final Garnish
- Top with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan. Serve immediately.
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Making this dish taught me that timing is crucial - having all ingredients prepped ensures smooth execution.
Storage Solutions
- Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight container
- Reheat gently with splash of cream
- Store sauce separately from pasta if making ahead
- Avoid freezing cream-based sauce
This versatile dish adapts easily to various dietary needs while maintaining its comforting appeal.
Dietary Benefits
- Protein-rich combination supports muscle health
- Complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy
- Calcium from dairy strengthens bones
- Garlic offers immune system support
Family Experience
My Italian mother's secret was adding pasta water gradually to achieve the perfect sauce consistency. The starch creates a silky finish.
Variations
- Spring: Add peas and fresh herbs
- Summer: Include cherry tomatoes
- Fall: Mix in butternut squash
- Winter: Add roasted mushrooms
Nutritional Profile
- Balanced protein-to-carb ratio
- Good source of B vitamins
- Rich in calcium and vitamin D
- Contains heart-healthy garlic
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crisp green salad
- Serve with garlic bread
- Add roasted vegetables
- Include fresh herbs
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The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability - perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, any pasta shape works well, particularly penne or fettuccine as alternatives to rigatoni.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
- Add extra Parmesan cheese or a splash more heavy cream to achieve a thicker, creamier consistency.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Best served fresh, but can be reheated gently with a splash of cream to restore the sauce's consistency.
- → Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, when made with gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.