This creamy chicken rigatoni is a cozy dish that’s sure to please! Tender chicken and pasta come together in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
I love how quickly this meal comes together—perfect for busy nights! Serve it up with a sprinkle of parsley, and watch everyone dig in with big smiles. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape holds sauce well, making it perfect for creamy dishes. If you can’t find rigatoni, you can use penne or fusilli as alternatives.
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook. You can swap them with cooked rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a change!
Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its rich texture. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if needed. Don’t skimp on creaminess!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast instead for a cheesy flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If you have frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is important for this dish. Here’s how to ensure it comes out juicy:
- Cut your chicken into evenly-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding chicken. This helps to sear it nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center (165°F internal temperature). This takes about 5-7 minutes.
With these tips, your chicken will turn out flavorful and tender every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and sauce, plus 10-15 minutes boiling the pasta. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Take the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Then, stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
4. Add Cheese and Spinach:
Now it’s time to make it cheesy! Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it’s melted and smooth. Next, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s wilted.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the creamy chicken rigatoni warm and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. For a little kick, sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes on top if you like. Dig in and enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Rigatoni Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat rigatoni is a great option for added fiber and nutrients. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a minute or two longer to reach the desired tenderness.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just be sure to sauté them along with the garlic for about 3-4 minutes before adding the cream and broth.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to help refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Sure! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version!
