Next, it’s time to cook the chicken. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. I always let the chicken brown a bit; it caramelizes beautifully and adds depth to the dish. Once the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, I add the minced garlic for that fragrant aroma that really makes my mouth water.
After a minute or so, I pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it with the chicken and garlic. As it heats up, I gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, watching as it melts and creates a creamy, delightful sauce. The color, that lush golden hue, is just stunning to behold. Finally, I gently fold the rigatoni into the skillet, allowing everything to combine beautifully.
I often top it off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for that pop of color and freshness. Then, I serve it right from the skillet, which always feels like a cozy gathering right at my table. And just like that, my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni is ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Best Results
When preparing this dish, I tested the cheese at different stages. I found that adding the Parmesan slowly while stirring in the cream created a smoother sauce, so don’t rush that step! Also, fresh garlic really enhances the flavor. If you can squeeze in a little extra love with fresh herbs, do so; they elevate the dish dramatically.
After trying several types of pasta, I discovered that rigatoni holds the sauce better than other pastas because of its ridges. So if you want that maximum creamy goodness in every bite, stick with rigatoni! Lastly, make sure your chicken is evenly diced; larger pieces may require more cooking time.
Lastly, I like to double the garlic because, let’s face it, life is better with extra garlic! Not only does it boost flavor, but it also adds that wonderful aroma that fills my kitchen and creates an inviting atmosphere.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I often made was rushing the cooking time for the chicken. It took me a few trials to finally understand that patience is key. Undercooked chicken disrupts the entire meal experience, so always ensure that chicken is cooked through! (See the next page below to continue…)