Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

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Craving something rich, cozy, and completely satisfying? Imagine crispy, golden chicken bites, coated in a luscious garlic butter crust, laid atop a bed of tender rigatoni drenched in creamy Alfredo sauce. This is not just dinner—this is indulgence in every bite.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce is a dish that marries the satisfying crunch of perfectly seared chicken with the creamy, savory elegance of Alfredo pasta. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight comfort food fix or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe brings flavor, texture, and heartiness to the table.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started on this flavor-packed dish, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials to ensure everything comes together effortlessly and beautifully:

• Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: Crucial for getting that perfect sear on the chicken. Cast iron holds heat evenly and creates a gorgeous crust.
• Saucepan: For gently preparing the Alfredo sauce without burning the cream or cheese.
• Large Pot: To cook the rigatoni until al dente, which is essential for absorbing the sauce properly.
• Tongs or Spatula: Ideal for flipping the chicken bites without disturbing the crispy coating.
• Colander: A must for draining your pasta efficiently.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For prepping the chicken evenly, which ensures uniform cooking and crispy edges.

Having these tools ready not only saves time but guarantees you hit the right texture and consistency across the dish.

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

• Chicken Breast: The star protein. Boneless, skinless chicken breast cooks quickly and delivers a juicy bite when seared.
• Rigatoni Pasta: The tube shape holds the Alfredo sauce beautifully, offering a balanced bite with every forkful.
• Butter: Essential for the garlic butter base that flavors the chicken.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic is key for a robust, aromatic butter.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings herbal depth to the chicken crust.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch on the chicken coating.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty depth to the Alfredo sauce and finishes the dish with nutty flavor.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the Alfredo, it delivers richness and smoothness.
• Olive Oil: Used for pan-searing and enhancing the garlic butter’s flavor.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken, pasta water, and sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A touch of heat to balance the richness.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness as garnish.

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

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge each piece in a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan for that golden crust.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Bites

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Sear chicken pieces in batches over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Rigatoni

Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently. Stir in grated Parmesan until fully melted and creamy. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Toss the cooked rigatoni in the Alfredo sauce. Arrange the crispy chicken bites over the pasta. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and chopped parsley.

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Serving and Storing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni

This dish is best served immediately while the Alfredo sauce is velvety and warm and the chicken is at its crispiest. Plate generously, and garnish with additional Parmesan or parsley if desired. For a fresh contrast, pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Double-check your Parmesan and seasoning blends to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely. Boneless chicken thighs work beautifully and offer even more juiciness. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and butter, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, but for best results, prepare the components separately and combine right before serving. Store the chicken and pasta in separate containers.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Avoid covering the chicken after cooking, and reheat uncovered in the oven or air fryer to maintain that crunch.

What wine pairs well with this meal?

A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and garlic-forward chicken beautifully.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta if you love spice with your cream sauces. For something bolder, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna layers tangy heat with cheese-laden comfort.

Need a quicker prep? The Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce gives you similar vibes with minimal work. Or go with Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you want a twist on the Alfredo base with a meaty punch.

If you’re experimenting, try the One Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta — it brings unexpected flavor with familiar comfort.

For more recipe ideas I share daily, follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

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