Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe combines tender chicken with rigatoni pasta, enveloped in a rich cheese sauce that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a delightful meal that’s not only delicious but also kid-friendly, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. The blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates a flavor profile that’s both savory and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 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
- Optional: chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, toss cubed chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter; sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth; bring to simmer while stirring.
- Stir in cheeses until melted; season with salt to taste.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the sauce; toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 115mg