This creamy chicken rigatoni is a comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken and rich sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how easy it is to whip up this meal after a long day. Just cook the chicken, mix in the creamy goodness, and toss with rigatoni—so satisfying! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: This tubular pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully. If you can’t find rigatoni, you can substitute with penne or fusilli for a similar effect.
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. You can use thighs if you prefer a juicier meat or even switch to tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mushrooms: Sliced button mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor. Feel free to try shiitake or cremini mushrooms for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: The cream makes the dish luscious. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option or use coconut cream for dairy-free needs.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. If you don’t have spinach, kale or arugula can work too. Just make sure to cook them until tender.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Stays Flavorful and Tender?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Always season your chicken before cooking. A mix of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika gives a nice flavor boost.
- Cook on medium-high heat to achieve a good sear. This locks in moisture.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to let the chicken brown well.
- Don’t overcook! Once it’s golden and no longer pink inside, remove it from the skillet. You can always add it back later in the sauce.
These tips ensure you have juicy, flavorful chicken in your creamy rigatoni!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Finishing Touches:
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach leaves (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken rigatoni can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and 15 minutes cooking, making it a quick and delicious meal to enjoy any night of the week!
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 is al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the chicken strips generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Once hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add your sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they are soft and tender, which takes about 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and carefully pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, letting the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it starts thickening up. Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and turns the sauce creamy.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and if you’re using it, add the fresh spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach has wilted and all the ingredients are well combined. Finally, add the drained rigatoni to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy chicken rigatoni immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Dish?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is fantastic for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten the dish, consider using whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based milk and use reduced-fat cheese. Adding more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers will boost the nutrition as well!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce if necessary.
Can I Add More Veggies or Other Proteins?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. You can also substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or add some cooked sausages for a different flavor profile.
