Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

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When you need a weeknight dinner that feels comforting, filling, and downright indulgent, Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce checks every box. Golden, juicy chicken bites soaked in garlic butter, tossed with tender rigatoni, and smothered in creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s a dish that brings the best of both worlds—bold flavor and creamy comfort—together in one skillet.

This recipe is all about balance. You’ve got the sear and savor from the chicken bites, the luxurious depth of Parmesan-rich Alfredo sauce, and the ridged pasta that holds every drop of creamy goodness. It’s simple enough to make on a Tuesday night, but satisfying enough to serve to guests when you want to impress without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

This recipe isn’t just about filling your belly—it’s about flavor layers that deliver in every bite. Garlic butter coats the chicken for a deep, savory base, while the Alfredo sauce adds a velvety, cheesy richness. The rigatoni absorbs everything and gives a little al dente bite for texture.

What makes it even better is how easy it is to make with pantry staples. No fancy ingredients, no special equipment. Just one pan and 30 minutes of your time.

Can I Use a Different Pasta Than Rigatoni?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is great at catching sauce inside its ridges and tubes, other short pasta types work just as well. Penne, fusilli, and even farfalle can all substitute beautifully. If you prefer long pasta like fettuccine or linguine, go ahead—just know the texture experience will change slightly. The key is to choose a pasta shape that complements the thick and creamy Alfredo sauce without letting it slide right off.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

To make this dish come together, you’ll only need a few essential ingredients that pack in a ton of flavor. Each one plays an important role in creating that cheesy, buttery, garlicky goodness that defines this comfort meal.

• Chicken breast – Cut into bite-sized chunks, chicken breast cooks quickly and absorbs all the garlic butter flavors perfectly.
• Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that elevate the chicken and balance the creaminess.
• Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter and chicken with a deep, savory aroma.
• Butter – This is the base of the garlic butter coating. It makes the chicken rich and golden.
• Olive oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds extra depth.
• Heavy cream – The key to a velvety Alfredo sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness to the sauce.
• Rigatoni pasta – Sturdy and ridged, it holds onto the Alfredo sauce like a dream.
• Italian seasoning – Brings together the herbs that round out the dish with flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melted into the final mix for that irresistible cheesy pull.

How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and a bit of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the rest of the butter along with the minced garlic. Let it sizzle gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Scrape up the browned bits left by the chicken for added flavor.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer until thickened slightly, about 3–5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Combine and Melt

Add the cooked rigatoni and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Finish

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the skillet and cover for 2–3 minutes until melted. Give everything a final stir, and serve warm with a little extra Parmesan on top if you like.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

This cheesy chicken pasta dish is as comforting on a plate as it is easy to serve. Just scoop it straight from the skillet into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan. It’s hearty enough to stand alone as a full meal and serves about 4 people generously.

If you happen to have leftovers, they store beautifully. Let the pasta cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silkiness. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through helps everything reheat evenly.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce?

Garlic Bread

A warm loaf of garlic bread is practically made to scoop up that Alfredo sauce. Crunchy edges, buttery inside—it’s a perfect pairing.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze balance the richness of this pasta with bright, clean flavors.

Roasted Asparagus

The crisp texture and slightly charred flavor of roasted asparagus adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and sharp Parmesan creates a satisfying bite next to warm, garlicky chicken.

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini

Lightly fried zucchini rounds coated in Parmesan bring a veggie crunch that matches the cheesy theme.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

If you’re serving a crowd, consider pairing this dish with a side of chicken meatballs in tomato sauce for a protein-packed spread. You can find a flavorful version on Janet Dishes.

One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta

For those who really want to indulge in a pasta feast, a small side of this lighter herb pasta adds contrast without competing on flavor.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce has you craving more creamy, comforting meals, you’re in good company. Here are some other irresistible dinner recipes from Janet Dishes that you’ll want to try next:

• One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a smoky, one-skillet twist.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you want to sneak in your greens with bold flavor.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Creamy Parmesan Pasta for another cheesy garlic hit with a different take.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you like your cream sauce with a little kick.
• Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe for a high-protein spin on Alfredo.

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you use rigatoni or switch it up? Did you add veggies or spice it up with chili flakes?

I love seeing how you all make these recipes your own. If you have questions or creative twists, drop them below!

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Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce is one of those dishes that checks all the boxes: quick, comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or indulging solo, it’s a dinner that delivers the comfort of classic pasta with the flavor of a restaurant-quality meal. And the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes. Creamy, cheesy happiness in every bite.

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