Creamy garlic butter chicken has become my absolute go-to for those nights when I need something delicious and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. I still remember the first time I tasted a truly phenomenal version of this dish at a little Italian place downtown – the aroma alone was intoxicating! It was so rich and satisfying, and I knew I had to figure out how to make creamy garlic butter chicken myself. This creamy garlic butter chicken recipe is my perfected version, bringing that restaurant-quality flavor right to your table in under 30 minutes. Get ready for tender chicken bathed in a luscious, garlicky, buttery sauce. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons. It’s unbelievably delicious, with a rich, savory flavor that coats every bite.
- Incredible Taste: You’ll adore the decadent combination of garlic, butter, and cream that makes this dish so special.
- Super Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that deliver gourmet results.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will devour this comforting garlic butter chicken pasta.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for different cuts of chicken or dietary needs.
- Perfect Pasta Pairing: This garlic butter chicken pasta is a match made in heaven.
- Satisfying Meal: It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly memorable chicken in garlic butter sauce. I’ve found that using good quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor, so opt for fresh garlic and good parmesan if you can!
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta – the sturdy shape holds this rich sauce beautifully
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken fillets, diced – about 1 lb total, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp butter – unsalted is best so you can control the salt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – don’t be shy with the garlic, it’s key!
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is what makes the sauce so luxuriously creamy
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil – for that classic Italian herb flavor
- 1 tsp dried oregano – complements the basil perfectly
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle warmth if you like a little heat
- Salt and pepper to taste – season generously
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds a pop of freshness and color
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni
This dish is surprisingly simple, proving that delicious meals don’t need to be complicated. Get ready to create a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen!
- Step 1: Start by cooking the rigatoni pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. I like to reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for sauces! Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, melt3 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thediced chicken and season it with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You’re looking for that beautiful sear that locks in the juices.
- Step 3: Lower the heat slightly and add the4 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for just about 1 minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
- Step 4: Pour in the1 cup heavy cream, then stir in the1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese,1 tsp dried basil,1 tsp dried oregano, and1/2 tsp red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let this glorious sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. You’ll notice it starts to thicken beautifully, creating that signature rich texture of a true garlic butter chicken skillet dish.
- Step 5: Add the drained rigatoni pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring every piece of pasta and chicken is coated in that luscious sauce. This is where the magic really happens, transforming it into a true one-pan creamy garlic chicken experience. If the sauce seems a little too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Step 6: Taste and season the dish withsalt and pepper as needed. Garnish generously withfresh parsley right before serving. This final touch adds a burst of freshness and a beautiful pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy this incredible creamy garlic butter chicken!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to make sure it’s absolutely perfect every single time. These simple tips will elevate your creamy garlic butter chicken from good to absolutely unforgettable!
- Always use fresh, good-quality garlic. Dried garlic powder just won’t give you that vibrant, pungent flavor that fresh minced garlic provides.
- Don’t overcook the chicken! It cooks quickly in the skillet, and overcooked chicken will be dry and tough, no matter how amazing the sauce is.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency; it helps emulsify the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Use full-fat heavy cream for the richest, creamiest sauce. While lighter options work, they won’t deliver the same luxurious texture.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy garlic butter chicken?
The real secret to achieving the best creamy garlic chicken is building layers of flavor. Start with a good sear on the chicken, don’t skimp on the fresh garlic, and use high-quality butter and cream. The reserved pasta water is also crucial for a silky sauce. For more tips on building flavor, check out this guide on building flavor profiles.
Can I make creamy garlic butter chicken ahead of time?
You can prep most components of this homemade garlic butter chicken ahead of time. Dice the chicken and mince the garlic up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta just before you plan to serve for the best texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy garlic butter chicken?
The most common mistake is burning the garlic; sauté it briefly until fragrant, not brown. Another pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which leads to dryness. Finally, don’t forget to reserve pasta water – it’s key for a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
This rich and decadent dish is practically a meal in itself, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the experience. Think of these as fantastic garlic butter chicken dinner ideas that complement the main star perfectly.
- Serve it as is! Honestly, a big bowl of this creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni is incredibly satisfying on its own. The pasta, chicken, and sauce are a complete package.
- Add a Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. It cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
- Garlic Bread is a Must: What’s better than soaking up extra sauce? Crusty garlic bread is the ultimate companion for this dish. You’ll want every last drop of that sauce!
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
This delightful creamy garlic butter chicken dish offers a satisfying balance of flavor and richness. Per serving, it provides a good amount of protein to keep you full.
- Calories: 580
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
I love having leftovers of this delicious chicken with garlic butter cream sauce because it reheats so well! First things first, let the dish cool down to room temperature for about an hour before you store it. Trying to refrigerate hot food can actually encourage bacterial growth. Once cooled, transfer the creamy garlic butter chicken into an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any odors from your refrigerator. You can store it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. For best results, freeze it in smaller portions, wrapped tightly, and it should last up to 3 months. Thawing overnight in the fridge is the gentlest way to bring it back to life.
When you’re ready to reheat, there are a few easy methods. On the stovetop, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce back up. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be sure not to overheat, as this can make the chicken tough.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
Is it hard to make creamy garlic butter chicken from scratch?
Not at all! This simple garlic butter chicken recipe is designed for ease. With just a few common ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes. It’s surprisingly forgiving, even for beginner cooks!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using creamy garlic chicken thighs can actually make the dish even more flavorful and moist, as thighs have a bit more fat. Just dice them up and cook them a few minutes longer than you would chicken breast to ensure they’re cooked through. The rich sauce will still make them delicious.
What makes this recipe so quick?
This is a truly quick creamy garlic chicken because we’re using pre-cooked pasta (or cooking it simultaneously) and a straightforward skillet method. The sauce comes together in minutes while the chicken cooks, making it ideal for weeknight dinners when time is short. It minimizes cleanup too!
Can I make this creamy garlic butter chicken dairy-free?
You can adapt it! For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk (the thick part from the top) or a good quality unsweetened dairy-free creamer. For the parmesan, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. It will change the flavor profile slightly but can still be delicious.
Variations of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken You Can Try
While this creamy garlic butter chicken recipe is fantastic as is, I love switching things up to keep meals exciting! Here are a few ideas for delicious variations:
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs: For an even richer, more tender dish, swap the chicken breast for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They have more fat, which means more flavor and moisture. Just dice them up and cook them a little longer than breasts until they’re perfectly done.
- Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken: If you love a little heat, kick this up a notch! Increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. It adds a wonderful warmth that complements the creamy garlic flavor beautifully.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Brighten up the sauce with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right at the end. A tablespoon or two adds a lovely tanginess that cuts through the richness, making it feel lighter.
- Mushroom Garlic Butter Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms (like cremini or button) with the chicken or garlic. They absorb the sauce wonderfully and add a lovely earthy depth to the dish.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken: 30 Min Magic
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy creamy garlic butter chicken rigatoni recipe with a rich, flavorful sauce perfect for a weeknight dinner. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken fillets, diced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, then stir in parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when cooking the garlic.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
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