🍝🧄 Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni 🐔🧀

11. 🌱 Fresh Parsley
Chopped, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.

Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente—tender but still slightly firm in the center.

Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water. This can help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Drain the pasta and set aside.

💡 Avoid overcooking the pasta since it will continue absorbing sauce when combined with the chicken.

2️⃣ Season and Cook the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.

Season evenly with:

Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Allow the chicken to develop a beautiful golden crust before turning.

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

💡 Proper browning creates deep flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.

3️⃣ Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter.

Once melted, add the minced garlic.

Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Do not allow the garlic to brown, as it can become bitter.

The kitchen should smell absolutely amazing at this stage!

4️⃣ Create the Parmesan Cream Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet.

Using a wooden spoon, scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.

Reduce the heat to low.

Slowly stir in:

Heavy cream
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth, silky, and creamy.

Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.

💡 Fresh Parmesan melts far better than pre-shredded cheese and creates a smoother sauce.

5️⃣ Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

Add the drained rigatoni.

Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or additional chicken broth.

6️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley.

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

For extra flavor, top with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.