Description
This Grilled Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce & Rigatoni is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring smoky grilled chicken, a rich Parmesan garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner for guests.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken – In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- 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.
- Make the Sauce – In a 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 Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Pasta – Boil rigatoni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the Dish – Add the grilled chicken to the sauce, then toss with the cooked rigatoni. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning or sauce.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Swap the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling & Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
