Description
Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, comforting dish that delivers rich flavors in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick recipe features tender chicken and al dente rigatoni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan. With its savory garlic undertones and kid-friendly appeal, this pasta meal is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it as a standalone dinner or pair it with fresh salads and garlic bread, this dish offers versatility and satisfaction that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer while stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
- Add cooked rigatoni and chicken back into the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg