Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce is a dish that marries the buttery goodness of garlic with the comforting embrace of creamy pasta. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender chicken, perfectly coated in a garlicky butter sauce that dances on your palate, while the rigatoni holds onto a luscious Alfredo sauce like it’s a long-lost friend. creamy chicken pasta dish.
This recipe isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Picture a cozy evening where laughter fills the air, and this dish takes center stage. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner with family, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce promises to make your taste buds sing and your heart do a happy dance. buttered chicken noodles recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is super simple and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes
- The rich flavors will have everyone begging for seconds
- This dish looks stunning on any plate, making it perfect for entertaining guests
- It’s versatile enough to serve as an elegant dinner or a comforting weeknight meal
Sharing this dish at dinner led to my family’s enthusiastic “Wow” reaction, which made all the chopping and stirring feel worth it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts for tenderness but adjust according to your crowd.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for that irresistible flavor that elevates every bite.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness while allowing the garlic’s natural sweetness to shine through.
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Heavy Cream: This creates the blissfully rich Alfredo sauce; don’t skimp on quality here!
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully and gives that authentic Italian flavor.
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Rigatoni Pasta: Its ridges trap sauce wonderfully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and warmth; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning at each step—don’t overlook these staples!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. spicy garlic chicken rotini Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and measure out your cream and cheese.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Chicken Bites: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until foamy. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown.
Add Garlic Bliss: Once the chicken is cooked through, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned—nobody likes burnt garlic!
Create Alfredo Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently before adding grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until melted and creamy; adjust seasoning if necessary.
Toss Everything Together!: Add cooked rigatoni directly into the skillet with chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until pasta is coated in that dreamy Alfredo goodness.
Now you have created a delightful plate of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce! Plate it up and enjoy an amazing meal filled with flavors that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. garlic herb steak bites.
You Must Know
- This recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce is a crowd-pleaser that combines rich flavors and comforting textures
- The creamy sauce envelops the pasta beautifully, while the garlic butter chicken adds a savory punch
- Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken bites in garlic butter, then cook rigatoni al dente. While the pasta cooks, whisk together a quick Alfredo sauce to ensure everything blends perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this Cajun chicken pasta recipe recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap rigatoni for another pasta shape or add veggies like spinach or broccoli. Experiment with spices or cheese to create your unique twist on this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan when searing
- Always let your pasta water come to a full boil before adding rigatoni for better texture
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; it elevates the entire dish significantly!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my friend’s reaction during a cozy dinner party. She took one bite and exclaimed that it was “like a hug from Italy,” which made my heart (and stomach) swell with pride!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
For more inspiration, check out this crockpot butter chicken recipe.
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in Alfredo sauce?
You can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a flavorful kick.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce is a delectable dish that combines succulent chicken bites sautéed in rich garlic butter with perfectly cooked rigatoni enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, promising a delightful culinary experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing the garlic.
- Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté chicken until golden brown; season with salt and pepper.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant (about one minute).
- Stir in heavy cream, simmer gently, then incorporate grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the chicken and sauce until well-coated before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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