Grilled Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce & Rigatoni

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – The Parmesan sauce is smooth, cheesy, and full of flavor.
• Perfectly Grilled Chicken – Adds a smoky and juicy element to the dish.
• Hearty & Satisfying – Rigatoni pasta soaks up the sauce beautifully for a filling meal.
• Quick & Easy – Comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Customizable – Add spice, veggies, or protein variations to make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta

Directions

1. Prep the Chicken – In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
2. Grill the Chicken – Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Set aside.
3. Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slightly before stirring in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook the Pasta – Boil rigatoni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the Dish – Add the grilled chicken to the sauce, then toss with the cooked rigatoni. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or mix some into the sauce.
• Extra Veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Protein Swap – Use shrimp or grilled tofu instead of chicken.
• Lighter Option – Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free – Swap rigatoni for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing – While the sauce may separate when thawed, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently and stir well.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink inside.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes! You can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.

What’s the best pasta substitute for rigatoni?

Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well since they hold the sauce beautifully.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Let it simmer longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese to achieve a thicker consistency.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair perfectly with this meal.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Consider adding a bit of butter for extra creaminess.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it up.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Just toss pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken into the sauce before mixing with pasta.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce & Rigatoni is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent. With its smoky grilled chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!