Creamy, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor, Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo is the kind of pasta dish that feels like a warm hug. It has the soul of a classic Italian dinner, with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rigatoni smothered in a luscious Alfredo sauce that clings to every bite.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss, but it’s also impressive enough to serve to guests. The creamy sauce, with its buttery garlic base and a touch of Parmesan, turns simple ingredients into something magical.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

It’s the kind of meal that makes you want seconds (or thirds). Between the rich sauce, the chewy pasta, and the golden seared chicken, every forkful is satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize. You can add broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, or swap the chicken for shrimp. And it’s a one-pot comfort dish that reheats beautifully, making leftovers something to look forward to.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is ideal for this Alfredo dish because of its ridged texture and hollow center, which soak up all that delicious sauce. But if you don’t have rigatoni, penne or ziti are excellent substitutes. Just aim for a pasta shape that can hold onto that creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

The key to a great Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo is using simple, quality ingredients that bring the most flavor.

Rigatoni pasta
Chicken breasts
Olive oil
Salt & black pepper
Butter
Garlic
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Parsley (optional)

Rigatoni provides the perfect pasta bite, while chicken breasts offer lean protein. Olive oil and butter lay the foundation of flavor, with garlic infusing the sauce. Heavy cream gives Alfredo its signature richness, and Parmesan adds that nutty, salty depth. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning ties everything together, and fresh parsley gives a final pop of freshness.

How To Make the Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them on both sides until golden and fully cooked through. Remove and let them rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Let it cook just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add a pinch of Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a bit of reserved pasta water. Slice the chicken and add it on top. Finish with more Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Serving and Storing Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo

This recipe comfortably feeds 4 people, but can easily be doubled for a crowd. Serve it hot right out of the pan, with a sprinkle of extra cheese and chopped parsley. If you want to get fancy, serve it in shallow bowls with toasted garlic bread on the side.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the silky sauce.

What to Serve With Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Nothing sops up Alfredo sauce like a crusty slice of warm garlic bread.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and tangy dressing cut through the richness beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus

The slight bitterness of roasted asparagus balances the creamy sauce.

Caprese Salad

Tomato, basil, and mozzarella bring a bright freshness to the table.

Lemon Zucchini

A side of zesty lemon zucchini will lighten the meal without stealing the spotlight.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Swap the rigatoni for a fun spin and make it a whole Italian feast.

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Yes, naan with pasta. Trust me, it’s incredible at mopping up every bit of sauce.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Serve this as a pasta bar night with options. A colorful, comforting pairing【5†source】.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a veggie-packed twist.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you’re craving bold, savory flavors.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a spicy seafood version.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce as a high-protein alternative.
Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for those craving earthy comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add broccoli or swap in shrimp? Did you sneak in some spinach?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook better.

Explore beautifully curated dinner ideas and more on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite cozy meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo is the ultimate weeknight winner. Creamy, satisfying, and full of flavor, it turns everyday ingredients into a meal you’ll want to repeat often. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to something special, this pasta brings comfort to the table.