If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that bursts with cheesy goodness and a delightful garlic punch, then you have to try this Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe. This dish brings together tender, perfectly seasoned chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese all wrapped around satisfyingly chewy rigatoni. Every bite feels indulgent yet balanced, making it the perfect recipe to impress family or just treat yourself to something truly special and soul-satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, everyday ingredients, but each one plays an important role in flavor and texture. From the hearty rigatoni that holds the sauce beautifully to the blend of cheeses that create that irresistible richness, you’ll appreciate how these essentials come together in harmony.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean protein that soaks up all the spices and sauce flavors perfectly.
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta: The tube shape of rigatoni grabs onto the creamy sauce, making every forkful a taste explosion.
- 4 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty and deep umami flavor that forms the backbone of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Gives the dish a sharp, creamy tang that complements the Parmesan perfectly.
- 3 cups whole milk: Creates that luscious creaminess essential in a velvety sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika: A flavorful spice duo adding a subtle kick and warmth that elevate the dish.
- Olive oil and minced garlic: Olive oil helps season the chicken, and garlic infuses the sauce with its aromatic punch.
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Start by boiling the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures your pasta has the perfect bite and won’t get mushy when combined with the sauce. Drain well and set aside while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Cube the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. This seasoning adds an irresistible smoky warmth that will shine through once the chicken is cooked.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken cubes. Sear until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. This step locks in the flavors and textures, resulting in juicy chicken that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not browned. Garlic forms the aromatic base of the sauce that your whole dish will build upon.
Step 5: Make the Roux and Sauce
Sprinkle in a bit of flour to the garlic and butter combination, whisking constantly to form a roux. Slowly pour in whole milk and chicken broth, whisking to combine. Let this mixture simmer gently until it thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. The patience here is key to achieving that perfect sauce consistency.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low and stir in grated Parmesan and shredded cheddar cheeses until fully melted and incorporated. This is where the sauce becomes gorgeously cheesy and velvety, coating every piece of rigatoni like a dream.
Step 7: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the browned chicken to the skillet and gently toss in the cooked rigatoni. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are generously coated in the luscious cheddar garlic and Parmesan sauce, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Plate your dish right away, garnishing with fresh chives or parsley if you like that pop of color and freshness. This Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is best enjoyed hot and bubbling for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped chives or flat-leaf parsley brighten up the richness of this dish. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan can add a nice sharp kick before serving. These little touches elevate the presentation without overwriting the beautiful flavors.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully to cut through the creaminess of the pasta. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts bring both color and a slight crunch to balance the meal. Something fresh and green always enhances the dinner plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking the mixed pasta and chicken in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs and extra cheddar cheese for a golden crust. Alternatively, serve the rigatoni in shallow bowls with a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick. The Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe is versatile and lends itself well to creative plating ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because this dish contains dairy, make sure to cool it quickly and store it properly to maintain freshness and flavor integrity.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen but the texture of the pasta might change slightly after thawing. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents the chicken from drying out. Microwave reheating works too, but stir halfway through to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal because it holds the sauce well, other pasta types like penne or ziti can be good substitutes. Just choose something with ridges or tubes to capture that creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk alternatives and dairy-free cheese substitutes. Keep in mind, the flavor and creaminess may vary, but the spices and chicken will still create a delicious dish.
Can I prepare this recipe using chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used and will add a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through completely.
What can I add if I want more veggies in the dish?
Spinach, mushrooms, or peas make great additions. Add quick-cooking vegetables towards the end of making the sauce to keep them fresh and vibrant. They add both nutrition and color.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe has a gentle kick from the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the spices to your taste to keep it mild or ramp it up.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably comforting about this Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It’s made with love, layered with beautifully balanced flavors, and brings joy at every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or indulging yourself, I encourage you to whip up this dish soon—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a keeper in your recipe arsenal.
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Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, comforting pasta dish combining tender, seasoned chicken with cheesy, garlicky sauce over perfectly cooked rigatoni. The blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheeses adds depth, while Cajun seasoning provides a subtle smoky kick, making it a hearty yet elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- Olive oil, for seasoning
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Smoked paprika, to taste
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
Pasta
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- Minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- All-purpose flour (amount estimated around 3 tbsp for roux)
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish (optional)
- Chives, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Season Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until evenly coated for a flavorful kick.
- Brown Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the seasoned chicken cubes. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, then remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Roux and Sauce: Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the garlic and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Combine All: Add the cooked rigatoni and browned chicken back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to combine and ensure all pasta and chicken are coated evenly.
- Serve: Serve the rigatoni hot, garnished with chopped chives if desired, for a bright, fresh touch.
Notes
- You can substitute whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to preferred spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- Use gluten-free rigatoni and flour for a gluten-free version.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- For an extra crispy chicken texture, consider breading the chicken before browning.
