Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Sometimes, the best comfort food is the kind that comes together without much fuss but feels like something you’d order at a cozy little trattoria. That’s exactly what I wanted when I created this recipe: tender, golden-crusted chicken bites loaded with garlicky butter, smothered in cheese, and served over creamy rigatoni alfredo. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every bite. The crispy edges of the chicken with the creamy sauce and hearty pasta? Irresistible.

I’ve made this dish for both weeknight dinners and casual dinner parties, and it always hits the mark. The alfredo sauce clings to the rigatoni perfectly, while the chicken, coated in herbs and pan-seared to crispy perfection, adds richness and texture. It’s the kind of dish that makes people pause after the first bite—then ask for seconds.

---

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

• Ultimate comfort food with creamy, cheesy, and crispy elements all in one dish
• Quick and weeknight-friendly, especially if you prep ingredients in advance
• Crowd-pleasing flavors that blend garlic, butter, cheese, and pasta seamlessly
• Customizable with different cheeses or added veggies
• Restaurant-style presentation without needing a reservation

---

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Alfredo Sauce?

I love using rigatoni for this recipe because its large, tube-like shape holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce so well. The ridges on the outside give it an extra grip, and every bite feels rich and satisfying. That said, you’re not locked into rigatoni. Penne, ziti, or even fettuccine will work great too. Just choose a pasta with a surface that clings well to sauces, so you don’t miss out on any of that velvety, cheesy Alfredo goodness.

---

Options for Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re missing a few things—this recipe is flexible:

• Chicken – Swap chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier bite, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Butter – If you want a lighter touch, replace half the butter with olive oil.
• Alfredo Sauce – Store-bought sauce works in a pinch, but homemade delivers a much richer flavor. You can also use a light cream sauce if you’re cutting calories.
• Cheese – Parmesan is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella for a stretchier texture or even sharp white cheddar for a bolder taste.
• Spices – Crushed red pepper flakes are optional if you want to dial up the heat. Smoked paprika adds a nice touch too.
• Pasta – Any sturdy pasta will work. Even gluten-free options hold up well in this dish.

---

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

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces form the star of this dish, delivering protein and a satisfying crispy texture once pan-seared.
• Rigatoni Pasta – This thick, tube-shaped pasta holds the creamy Alfredo sauce in every bite and adds a hearty base to the dish.
• Butter – Essential for that rich garlic butter flavor coating the chicken and forming the base of the Alfredo sauce.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic brings out a punch of savory aroma and depth to the butter and sauce.
• Heavy Cream – The foundation of any good Alfredo sauce—creamy, rich, and indulgent.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan melts into the sauce to give it a nutty, cheesy finish that clings beautifully to the pasta.
• Italian Seasoning – Adds herbaceous notes to the chicken for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Simple but necessary, these enhance the natural flavors of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but a great way to add a bit of heat and balance the creaminess of the Alfredo.
• Fresh Parsley – Chopped and sprinkled on top, parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh finish.
• Olive Oil – Helps get that golden crust on the chicken when pan-searing.

---

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a little garlic powder if you’d like. Toss them in a bowl until evenly coated.

---

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

---

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil and half the butter. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to get a golden crust, then flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.

---

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the rest of the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown). Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

---

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce thickens. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

---

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni into the Alfredo sauce and toss gently to coat every piece. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to soak up flavor.

---

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Plate the creamy rigatoni, then top it with the golden chicken bites. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

---

How Long to Cook Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

The whole recipe comes together in about 35 minutes, making it a great choice for weeknights or lazy weekends. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Pasta Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Chicken Cooking Time: 6–8 minutes
• Sauce & Assembly: 10 minutes

You can multitask by boiling the pasta while searing the chicken, saving even more time.

---

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce

• Don’t crowd the pan when cooking chicken bites—cook in batches if needed to ensure a crisp, golden sear.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth Alfredo sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
• Season in layers—season the chicken, the sauce, and adjust at the end to bring out the full flavor.
• Reserve pasta water and use it to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
• Let the garlic cook just until fragrant, not browned—it can quickly turn bitter.
• Toss the pasta in the sauce while it’s still hot, so it absorbs all the creaminess.
• Garnish at the end with fresh herbs and chili flakes for a burst of color and contrast.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken
  It’s easy to go a minute too long and end up with dry, rubbery chicken. Keep a close eye and remove it from the pan as soon as it’s golden and cooked through.
• Burning the Garlic
  Garlic cooks fast—just 30 seconds is enough. Burned garlic turns bitter and can ruin the flavor of the whole sauce.
• Skipping the Pasta Water
  The starchy pasta water is a game changer. It helps loosen the Alfredo and makes the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
• Using Cold Cheese
  Tossing cold cheese into the sauce can cause clumps. Let it sit at room temp while you cook or warm it slightly.
• Not Salting the Pasta Water
  This is your first chance to season the pasta properly. Bland pasta = bland dish.

---

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

Garlic Bread

To mop up every last bit of that creamy Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad

Its crisp romaine and zesty dressing balance the richness of the dish beautifully.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a healthy green touch and a slightly bitter note that complements the creamy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, umami-packed mushrooms pair wonderfully with both Alfredo and garlicky chicken.

A Glass of White Wine

Something like a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio elevates the experience and cuts through the creaminess.

Cherry Tomato Salad

Fresh, juicy tomatoes tossed with olive oil and basil give brightness and acidity.

Mozzarella-Stuffed Breadsticks

Cheesy on cheesy? Yes please. These are perfect for dipping or just enjoying on the side.

Steamed Asparagus with Lemon

A light and simple veggie side that keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.

---

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce store really well, making it a great meal prep option too.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. The microwave works too—just cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the Alfredo sauce tends to separate and become grainy after thawing.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~650
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Serving Size: ~1 ½ cups
• Diet: Comfort Food / Not Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free
• Category: Dinner / Pasta

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and a tablespoon of flour for a lighter version. It won’t be quite as rich, but still creamy and tasty.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great—just shred it and add it to the Alfredo sauce at the end to warm through. You’ll miss the crispy sear, but it saves time.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Kids usually love the cheesy, garlicky flavor, especially if you skip or reduce the red pepper flakes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and cook the pasta ahead. Store them separately and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken seasoning or sauce. You can also top it with a drizzle of chili oil for a kick.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to split.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely. Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli. They blend well with the creamy sauce and boost nutrition.

Is store-bought Alfredo sauce okay to use?

Yes, it’s a great time-saver. Choose a high-quality jarred Alfredo, and enhance it by adding fresh garlic, Parmesan, or a touch of cream to elevate the flavor.

---

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Rigatoni in Alfredo Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that looks fancy but comes together with ease. You get juicy, garlicky chicken with crispy edges, a silky Alfredo sauce that hugs every piece of rigatoni, and flavors that just keep getting better with every bite. It’s weeknight-friendly, dinner-party ready, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this dish is a guaranteed win on any table.

---

Print