This creamy chicken rigatoni is a comforting dish filled with tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich sauce that’s simply delightful. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel warm inside!
Honestly, I can’t resist a good pasta dish, and this one is perfect for busy nights. Just boil the pasta, cook the chicken, mix, and you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of happiness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: Rigatoni is perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce, but if you don’t have it, you can use penne or farfalle instead. Both work well and mimic the same texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with, but you could use thighs for more flavor, or even rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred and add it to the sauce!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half and half or even coconut milk if you want a dairy-free version. The sauce may be less thick, but still delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a great flavor, but if you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative if you’re avoiding cheese.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely into the sauce, but you could swap it for kale or even frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available—just make sure to thaw and drain it first!
How Do I Make Creamy Sauces Without Curdling?
Creating a creamy sauce can be tricky, especially avoiding curdling. Here are some simple steps:
- Cook over low to medium heat. High heat can cause the cream to separate.
- Gradually add the cream after the broth. This helps prevent sudden heat shocks.
- Don’t rush the cheese. Add it while the sauce is off the heat or at a lower temperature to help it melt smoothly.
- Stir constantly! This ensures the ingredients blend together nicely and help avoid curdling.
Following these tips will help you create a smooth, creamy sauce every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken rigatoni recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Then, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat and pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any delicious browned bits. Let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes. Then stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, and keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
5. Combine It All:
Add the cooked chicken and chopped spinach back into the sauce, stirring until the spinach has wilted. Then, toss in the cooked rigatoni and stir it all together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the creamy chicken rigatoni onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!
This creamy chicken rigatoni is not only comforting but also quick to whip up, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat rigatoni adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free options like rice or chickpea pasta will work beautifully as well. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For more depth, consider adding sundried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even sautéed mushrooms. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! 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.
How Do I Make This Dish Creamier?
If you want a creamier sauce, you can add another 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche just before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed after adding more liquid!