Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni Flavorful Delight

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- Chicken and Pasta - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks - 12 oz rigatoni pasta - Seasonings and Sauces - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 6 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat) - 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred) - 1 lemon, juiced and zested (keep zest separate) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Garnishes - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the rich flavor of this garlic butter chicken with rigatoni. The chicken provides a hearty base, while the rigatoni adds a delightful texture. The garlic and butter work together for a savory aroma that fills your kitchen. Don't skip the lemon juice; it brightens the dish and balances the creaminess. Using fresh parsley as a garnish gives a pop of color and a fresh taste. You can adjust the heat with red chili flakes. If you prefer, feel free to experiment with other flavors or add-ins. This dish is all about making it your own while keeping that delicious garlic butter goodness at the forefront. For the full cooking experience, check out the Full Recipe to guide you through each step. Boiling the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. Draining and Setting Aside Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well using a colander. Make sure to shake off any excess water. Set the rigatoni aside in a large bowl, ready for mixing later. Seasoning the Chicken While the pasta cooks, grab your chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Season these pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. Sautéing Instructions In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. When the butter is bubbling, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. Melting Butter and Sautéing Garlic In the same skillet, lower the heat to low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once it melts, stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes, if you want some heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but watch closely to avoid burning the garlic. Incorporating Broth and Cream Next, carefully pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Increase the heat to bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it simmers, add the heavy cream and lemon zest. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Mixing Chicken and Pasta Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cooked chicken and rigatoni back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce. Adding Parmesan Cheese Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt into the dish, adding a rich flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Perfect Doneness for Chicken To ensure your chicken is juicy and safe to eat, cook it until it reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The inside should no longer be pink. This gives you tender chicken that pairs well with the sauce. Ideal Pasta Texture When cooking rigatoni, aim for al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Follow the package instructions, but start checking a minute early. Under-cooked pasta holds sauce better, giving you a delightful bite. Achieving the Right Consistency Your garlic butter sauce should be creamy and slightly thick. After adding the heavy cream, let it simmer. Stir often to avoid burning. If it's too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. Adjust until you reach that luscious feel. Flavor Enhancements For more flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or basil when cooking the sauce. A dash of white wine can also brighten the taste. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to make all the flavors pop. Presentation Ideas Serve the garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in deep bowls. Drizzle extra sauce on top for a glossy finish. Add more freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for a colorful look. This makes the dish inviting! Pairing Recommendations This dish pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, enhances the meal. For dessert, consider something light, like sorbet, to cleanse your palate after the rich flavors. For the complete cooking process, refer to the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} Different Proteins You can change the chicken to suit your taste. Try shrimp for a seafood twist. Salmon also works well; it adds richness. If you prefer plant-based meals, use tofu or tempeh. Both soak up flavors nicely. Each protein brings its own unique taste to this dish. Vegetable Additions Adding veggies can enhance the meal. Spinach adds color and nutrients. Broccoli gives a nice crunch. You can also use bell peppers for sweetness. Just sauté them in the garlic butter sauce. This way, you get a more balanced dish. Mild vs Spicy Options For a mild dish, skip the red chili flakes. The garlic butter sauce is still full of flavor. If you want heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in fresh jalapeños for a kick. Adjusting spice can fit everyone’s taste. Alternative Pasta Choices If you need a gluten-free option, use rice pasta or quinoa pasta. These options cook well and taste great. You can also try spiralized zucchini for a low-carb twist. This keeps the dish fresh and light. Just remember to adjust cooking times for different pasta. After you make garlic butter chicken with rigatoni, let it cool for about 30 minutes. This cooling helps keep the food safe. Store the chicken and pasta in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, make sure to separate the chicken from the rigatoni. This prevents the pasta from getting too soggy. To warm up leftovers, the best method is to use the stove. Place the chicken and rigatoni in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help with moisture. Stir often until everything is heated through. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just cover the dish with a lid and heat it for one to two minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even heating. If you want to freeze garlic butter chicken with rigatoni, do it carefully. Store the chicken and pasta in separate containers. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to avoid freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight. Reheat it in a skillet to restore its creaminess. This way, you still enjoy that rich flavor! Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can use different pasta shapes. Penne or farfalle work well. Just adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose. How can I make this dish lighter? To lighten it up, you can use less butter. You could also swap heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half. What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Greek yogurt can also add creaminess with fewer calories. How long to cook chicken thoroughly? Cook chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Ensure they reach an internal temp of 165°F for safety. What is the ideal cook time for rigatoni? Rigatoni usually takes about 10-12 minutes to cook until al dente. Check the package for specific times. Can I replace Parmesan cheese? Yes, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is great for a vegan option. What to use instead of lemon juice? You can use lime juice or white vinegar as a tangy substitute. Both will add similar acidity to the dish. This blog post covered how to make garlic butter chicken with rigatoni. We went through the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for success. I shared variations to keep it exciting and storage info for leftovers. Dive into this dish with confidence! Remember, small tweaks can make a big difference. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this meal your own!

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If you’re looking for a delicious meal that’s quick and easy, you’ve found it! Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni is a flavorful delight that will impress anyone at your table. With juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish you’ll crave often. In this blog post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the ingredients and cooking process. Let’s get started on creating your new favorite meal!

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Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– Chicken and Pasta

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks

– 12 oz rigatoni pasta

– Seasonings and Sauces

– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

– 6 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)

– 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

– 1 lemon, juiced and zested (keep zest separate)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– Garnishes

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the rich flavor of this garlic butter chicken with rigatoni. The chicken provides a hearty base, while the rigatoni adds a delightful texture. The garlic and butter work together for a savory aroma that fills your kitchen. Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.

Using fresh parsley as a garnish gives a pop of color and a fresh taste. You can adjust the heat with red chili flakes. If you prefer, feel free to experiment with other flavors or add-ins. This dish is all about making it your own while keeping that delicious garlic butter goodness at the forefront.

For the full cooking experience, check out the Full Recipe to guide you through each step.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Rigatoni

Boiling the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard.

Draining and Setting Aside

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well using a colander. Make sure to shake off any excess water. Set the rigatoni aside in a large bowl, ready for mixing later.

Preparing the Chicken

Seasoning the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, grab your chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Season these pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.

Sautéing Instructions

In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. When the butter is bubbling, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

Melting Butter and Sautéing Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once it melts, stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes, if you want some heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but watch closely to avoid burning the garlic.

Incorporating Broth and Cream

Next, carefully pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Increase the heat to bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it simmers, add the heavy cream and lemon zest. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combining Ingredients

Mixing Chicken and Pasta

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cooked chicken and rigatoni back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce.

Adding Parmesan Cheese

Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt into the dish, adding a rich flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

Perfect Doneness for Chicken

To ensure your chicken is juicy and safe to eat, cook it until it reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The inside should no longer be pink. This gives you tender chicken that pairs well with the sauce.

Ideal Pasta Texture

When cooking rigatoni, aim for al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Follow the package instructions, but start checking a minute early. Under-cooked pasta holds sauce better, giving you a delightful bite.

Sauce Tips

Achieving the Right Consistency

Your garlic butter sauce should be creamy and slightly thick. After adding the heavy cream, let it simmer. Stir often to avoid burning. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. Adjust until you reach that luscious feel.

Flavor Enhancements

For more flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or basil when cooking the sauce. A dash of white wine can also brighten the taste. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to make all the flavors pop.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation Ideas

Serve the garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in deep bowls. Drizzle extra sauce on top for a glossy finish. Add more freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for a colorful look. This makes the dish inviting!

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, enhances the meal. For dessert, consider something light, like sorbet, to cleanse your palate after the rich flavors.

For the complete cooking process, refer to the Full Recipe.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

Different Proteins

You can change the chicken to suit your taste. Try shrimp for a seafood twist. Salmon also works well; it adds richness. If you prefer plant-based meals, use tofu or tempeh. Both soak up flavors nicely. Each protein brings its own unique taste to this dish.

Vegetable Additions

Adding veggies can enhance the meal. Spinach adds color and nutrients. Broccoli gives a nice crunch. You can also use bell peppers for sweetness. Just sauté them in the garlic butter sauce. This way, you get a more balanced dish.

Spice Level Adjustments

Mild vs Spicy Options

For a mild dish, skip the red chili flakes. The garlic butter sauce is still full of flavor. If you want heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in fresh jalapeños for a kick. Adjusting spice can fit everyone’s taste.

Gluten-Free Options

Alternative Pasta Choices

If you need a gluten-free option, use rice pasta or quinoa pasta. These options cook well and taste great. You can also try spiralized zucchini for a low-carb twist. This keeps the dish fresh and light. Just remember to adjust cooking times for different pasta.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After you make garlic butter chicken with rigatoni, let it cool for about 30 minutes. This cooling helps keep the food safe. Store the chicken and pasta in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, make sure to separate the chicken from the rigatoni. This prevents the pasta from getting too soggy.

Reheating Instructions

To warm up leftovers, the best method is to use the stove. Place the chicken and rigatoni in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help with moisture. Stir often until everything is heated through. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just cover the dish with a lid and heat it for one to two minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even heating.

Freezing Tips

If you want to freeze garlic butter chicken with rigatoni, do it carefully. Store the chicken and pasta in separate containers. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to avoid freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight. Reheat it in a skillet to restore its creaminess. This way, you still enjoy that rich flavor!

FAQs

Common Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use different pasta shapes. Penne or farfalle work well. Just adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten it up, you can use less butter. You could also swap heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Greek yogurt can also add creaminess with fewer calories.

Cooking Time Questions

How long to cook chicken thoroughly?

Cook chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Ensure they reach an internal temp of 165°F for safety.

What is the ideal cook time for rigatoni?

Rigatoni usually takes about 10-12 minutes to cook until al dente. Check the package for specific times.

Ingredient Substitute Queries

Can I replace Parmesan cheese?

Yes, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is great for a vegan option.

What to use instead of lemon juice?

You can use lime juice or white vinegar as a tangy substitute. Both will add similar acidity to the dish.

This blog post covered how to make garlic butter chicken with rigatoni. We went through the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for success. I shared variations to keep it exciting and storage info for leftovers. Dive into this dish with confidence! Remember, small tweaks can make a big difference. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this meal your own!

- Chicken and Pasta - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks - 12 oz rigatoni pasta - Seasonings and Sauces - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 6 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat) - 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred) - 1 lemon, juiced and zested (keep zest separate) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Garnishes - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the rich flavor of this garlic butter chicken with rigatoni. The chicken provides a hearty base, while the rigatoni adds a delightful texture. The garlic and butter work together for a savory aroma that fills your kitchen. Don't skip the lemon juice; it brightens the dish and balances the creaminess. Using fresh parsley as a garnish gives a pop of color and a fresh taste. You can adjust the heat with red chili flakes. If you prefer, feel free to experiment with other flavors or add-ins. This dish is all about making it your own while keeping that delicious garlic butter goodness at the forefront. For the full cooking experience, check out the Full Recipe to guide you through each step. Boiling the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. Draining and Setting Aside Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well using a colander. Make sure to shake off any excess water. Set the rigatoni aside in a large bowl, ready for mixing later. Seasoning the Chicken While the pasta cooks, grab your chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Season these pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. Sautéing Instructions In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. When the butter is bubbling, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. Melting Butter and Sautéing Garlic In the same skillet, lower the heat to low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once it melts, stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes, if you want some heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but watch closely to avoid burning the garlic. Incorporating Broth and Cream Next, carefully pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Increase the heat to bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it simmers, add the heavy cream and lemon zest. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Mixing Chicken and Pasta Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cooked chicken and rigatoni back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce. Adding Parmesan Cheese Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt into the dish, adding a rich flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Perfect Doneness for Chicken To ensure your chicken is juicy and safe to eat, cook it until it reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The inside should no longer be pink. This gives you tender chicken that pairs well with the sauce. Ideal Pasta Texture When cooking rigatoni, aim for al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Follow the package instructions, but start checking a minute early. Under-cooked pasta holds sauce better, giving you a delightful bite. Achieving the Right Consistency Your garlic butter sauce should be creamy and slightly thick. After adding the heavy cream, let it simmer. Stir often to avoid burning. If it's too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. Adjust until you reach that luscious feel. Flavor Enhancements For more flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or basil when cooking the sauce. A dash of white wine can also brighten the taste. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to make all the flavors pop. Presentation Ideas Serve the garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in deep bowls. Drizzle extra sauce on top for a glossy finish. Add more freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for a colorful look. This makes the dish inviting! Pairing Recommendations This dish pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, enhances the meal. For dessert, consider something light, like sorbet, to cleanse your palate after the rich flavors. For the complete cooking process, refer to the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} Different Proteins You can change the chicken to suit your taste. Try shrimp for a seafood twist. Salmon also works well; it adds richness. If you prefer plant-based meals, use tofu or tempeh. Both soak up flavors nicely. Each protein brings its own unique taste to this dish. Vegetable Additions Adding veggies can enhance the meal. Spinach adds color and nutrients. Broccoli gives a nice crunch. You can also use bell peppers for sweetness. Just sauté them in the garlic butter sauce. This way, you get a more balanced dish. Mild vs Spicy Options For a mild dish, skip the red chili flakes. The garlic butter sauce is still full of flavor. If you want heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in fresh jalapeños for a kick. Adjusting spice can fit everyone’s taste. Alternative Pasta Choices If you need a gluten-free option, use rice pasta or quinoa pasta. These options cook well and taste great. You can also try spiralized zucchini for a low-carb twist. This keeps the dish fresh and light. Just remember to adjust cooking times for different pasta. After you make garlic butter chicken with rigatoni, let it cool for about 30 minutes. This cooling helps keep the food safe. Store the chicken and pasta in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, make sure to separate the chicken from the rigatoni. This prevents the pasta from getting too soggy. To warm up leftovers, the best method is to use the stove. Place the chicken and rigatoni in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help with moisture. Stir often until everything is heated through. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just cover the dish with a lid and heat it for one to two minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even heating. If you want to freeze garlic butter chicken with rigatoni, do it carefully. Store the chicken and pasta in separate containers. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to avoid freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight. Reheat it in a skillet to restore its creaminess. This way, you still enjoy that rich flavor! Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can use different pasta shapes. Penne or farfalle work well. Just adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose. How can I make this dish lighter? To lighten it up, you can use less butter. You could also swap heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half. What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Greek yogurt can also add creaminess with fewer calories. How long to cook chicken thoroughly? Cook chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Ensure they reach an internal temp of 165°F for safety. What is the ideal cook time for rigatoni? Rigatoni usually takes about 10-12 minutes to cook until al dente. Check the package for specific times. Can I replace Parmesan cheese? Yes, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is great for a vegan option. What to use instead of lemon juice? You can use lime juice or white vinegar as a tangy substitute. Both will add similar acidity to the dish. This blog post covered how to make garlic butter chicken with rigatoni. We went through the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for success. I shared variations to keep it exciting and storage info for leftovers. Dive into this dish with confidence! Remember, small tweaks can make a big difference. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this meal your own!

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni

Savor the deliciousness of Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni! This creamy and flavorful dish combines tender chicken, al dente rigatoni, and rich garlic butter sauce for an irresistible meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's quick to make in just 30 minutes. Discover how to easily prepare this comforting favorite at home and impress your family and friends. Click through for the full recipe and tips to elevate your dining experience!
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Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks

12 oz rigatoni pasta

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)

1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

1 lemon, juiced and zested (keep zest separate)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Rigatoni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside in a large bowl.

    Season the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.

      Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. After the butter has melted and is bubbling, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

        Create the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once it has melted, stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes (if using). Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic burn.

          Incorporate Broth and Cream: Carefully pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the heavy cream and lemon zest. Stir well to blend the ingredients and allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

            Combine Everything: Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the cooked chicken and rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the dish. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste.

              Serve the Dish: Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for about one minute. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant garnish.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in generous portions inside deep bowls. Drizzle with any remaining sauce from the skillet, and crown with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an inviting and colorful presentation. Enjoy!

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