This creamy chicken rigatoni is a comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for any dinner! With tender chicken, rich cream, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, it’s hard to resist.
I love how quick it is to whip up on busy nights. Just cook the chicken, toss in the pasta, and stir in the creamy goodness—dinner is served! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: This shape is perfect for creamy sauces since it holds onto the sauce well. If you can’t find rigatoni, other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli can work too!
Chicken: Boneless chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey breast instead, or even try chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich creaminess. For a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream. Just know that it might alter the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor and helps thicken the sauce. If you need a substitute, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce, adding color and nutrients. Feel free to substitute with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer those greens.
Why is Cooking Chicken Properly Important?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial for flavor and safety. Here’s how to ensure it’s cooked perfectly:
- Keep the heat at medium-high to get a nice sear without drying it out.
- Cook until the chicken is golden brown and firm to the touch, about 5-7 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
By following these tips, you’ll get juicy chicken every time, which is key to a delicious creamy chicken rigatoni!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. With just a little chopping and cooking, you’ll have a delicious creamy chicken rigatoni ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn! Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Spinach:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt, which will help thicken the sauce. After a minute, toss in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, usually about 2 minutes.
5. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything well. If you like a little heat, feel free to add the crushed red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Toss and Serve:
Finally, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss it until every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your creamy and comforting chicken rigatoni! It’s perfect for dinner and sure to please everyone at the table!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Rigatoni Instead of Regular?
Absolutely! Whole wheat rigatoni is a great option for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that it may take a bit longer to cook, so check the package instructions for timing.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a combination of milk and a bit of butter. For a dairy-free choice, try coconut cream or cashew cream, which will still provide a nice richness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.
