Creamy Chicken Rigatoni is a comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken and rich, creamy sauce with fun rigatoni noodles. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra tasty finish. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: Rigatoni is great for holding onto that creamy sauce. If you can’t find it, penne or farfalle are excellent substitutes! They’ll add a fun twist.
Chicken Breast: I like using boneless, skinless chicken for its ease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey breast. For vegetarians, grilled tofu or mushrooms work really well too!
Heavy Cream: This is what gives that richness to the dish. If you want something lighter, you can use half-and-half or a blend of milk and a bit of flour for creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a cheesy depth. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option can work too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great flavor and nutrition. You could also use kale or arugula, which can give a different taste and texture.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
The key to a rich and creamy sauce is patience and gradual heating. Start by adding the broth and cream to the skillet after cooking garlic. This ensures all that lovely garlic flavor seeps into the base.
- Simmer gently after combining liquids to avoid curdling. Watch it closely!
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese slowly so it melts evenly into the sauce.
If the sauce thickens too quickly, feel free to add a splash more chicken broth or cream until it’s just right! Don’t rush this process for the best results.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delightful dish takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prep everything else.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute or until it’s fragrant—just be careful not to let it burn!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. You’re building the base for that creamy goodness!
5. Add the Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes now. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens up a little.
6. Incorporate Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach leaves to your creamy sauce and cook them just until they wilt away.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the creamy sauce to coat it well. Then, add the drained rigatoni and gently toss everything together until the rigatoni is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your creamy chicken rigatoni while it’s hot, and finish with fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy chicken rigatoni! It’s comfort food at its best!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is fantastic for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to substitute with penne, farfalle, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just cook according to the package instructions!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk with a tablespoon of flour. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream or cashew cream can work well!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the chicken with extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Tofu or chickpeas are also excellent protein alternatives!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.