Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni with Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

by

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni with Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni with Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is perfect for weeknights or special dinners. Tender chunks of chicken and rigatoni pasta are smothered in a rich, garlicky sauce loaded with mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make — a surefire hit for the whole family.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 1½ cups heavy cream

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1 — Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 — Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3 — Sauté Onion and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4 — Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5 — Add the Cheeses

Stir in the cream cheese until smooth. Then add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses along with the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is creamy and fully combined.

Step 6 — Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken and rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 7 — Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm and cheesy.

Tips & Tricks

  • Cheese Choice: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds richer flavor.

  • Chicken: Cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure it cooks evenly.

  • Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers for extra color and nutrition.

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce while the pasta cooks to save time.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni with Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is a rich, indulgent pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its creamy garlic sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.