Comfort food doesn’t get more irresistible than this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce. This dish brings together tender pieces of garlic butter chicken and perfectly cooked rigatoni, all swimming in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. Every bite is coated in cheesy, garlicky goodness that warms you from the inside out.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner night or just craving something indulgent, this pasta delivers the kind of satisfaction that only creamy, carb-loaded comfort can. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but impressive enough to serve to guests who won’t stop asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

From its luscious Alfredo base to the golden, pan-seared chicken, this rigatoni recipe feels luxurious without demanding hours of prep. The garlic butter chicken infuses the entire dish with savory richness, while the cheese pulls everything together into a creamy, cohesive bite. Plus, it’s kid-approved and leftovers taste just as dreamy.

If you love bold, buttery flavors and a creamy texture that hugs every noodle, this one’s for you. You can even customize it with spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair.

What Kind of Alfredo Sauce Works Best?

You can use your favorite jarred Alfredo sauce for a quick fix, but making your own with heavy cream, butter, garlic, and parmesan will elevate this dish to a whole new level. A homemade sauce lets you control the creaminess and saltiness, and it melds beautifully with the garlic butter chicken.

If you’re in a rush, pick a high-quality Alfredo from the refrigerated section over shelf-stable jars. These tend to be creamier and less processed, making your final dish taste fresher and richer.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce

This recipe shines when you use quality ingredients that layer flavor and texture. Each component contributes to the comforting richness of the dish, from the tender pasta to the seasoned chicken and creamy sauce. Make sure to use fresh garlic and good cheese for best results.

Rigatoni pasta
Chicken breast
Garlic cloves
Unsalted butter
Olive oil
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Salt and black pepper
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce 2

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rigatoni in generously salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt more butter and add minced garlic. Cook just until fragrant—don’t let it brown. This step builds the base of flavor for your Alfredo.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and a handful of shredded mozzarella. Let it melt down, whisking until creamy. Season with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. If it’s too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Spoon into bowls and top with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot while the cheese is perfectly melty and the sauce is luxuriously creamy.

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

This hearty pasta dish is ideal for feeding 4 to 6 hungry people, especially when served with a simple salad or some crusty bread. If you’re prepping for a gathering, it holds well on a warm plate and continues to deepen in flavor as it rests.

For storing leftovers, let the rigatoni cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silkiness. You can microwave it or warm it gently on the stovetop.

Freezing isn’t ideal for this one since the cream sauce may separate, but it can be done in a pinch if stored properly and reheated slowly.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Classic Caesar Salad

The crispness of romaine with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Garlic Bread or Cheese Toast

Double down on the garlic theme with a crunchy, buttery side that helps soak up every last bit of sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

A simple roasted veggie like asparagus brings a vibrant green and lightly charred flavor to the plate.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

Cool, tangy cucumbers tossed in yogurt or sour cream cut through the heaviness and add crunch.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

The sweet acidity of balsamic glaze enhances the buttery chicken and cheese flavors.

Sauteed Spinach with Lemon

Lightly wilted spinach with lemon brightens the plate and adds nutrients.

Crispy Parmesan Zucchini

For more cheesy crunch, zucchini rounds baked with parmesan are a perfect match.

Tomato Basil Soup

It may seem unconventional, but a light tomato soup complements the Alfredo with a little acidity and warmth.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce, you’ll definitely want to try these delicious pasta favorites from Janet Dishes:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a tangy, vegetarian twist.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a meaty, comforting spin on rigatoni.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta if you’re craving sun-dried tomato and spinach goodness.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a playful, bite-sized take on creamy chicken pasta.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for a protein-packed alternative to traditional Alfredo.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime you’re craving something rich and cozy.

And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes? Did you make your own Alfredo or use your favorite brand?

Leave a comment and let’s inspire each other to cook boldly.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next obsession.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Alfredo Sauce is pure indulgence on a plate. It brings the kind of satisfaction that only creamy cheese, garlicky chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta can deliver. Whether it’s for a weeknight comfort meal or something special to serve guests, this dish delivers every time.