Chicken and Mushroom Rigatoni

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than Chicken and Mushroom Rigatoni. This meal combines tender pieces of chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked rigatoni tossed in a luscious creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to whip up on any weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe hits all the right notes with its creamy texture, savory depth, and satisfying bite.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Chicken and Mushroom Rigatoni is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every forkful. The rigatoni noodles are ideal for trapping the creamy sauce inside their ridges and tube shape, ensuring every bite is flavorful. The chicken adds a hearty protein element while the mushrooms bring an earthy richness that complements the herbs and garlic beautifully. Plus, with the subtle heat from red pepper flakes and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese, this pasta dish becomes irresistibly tasty. It’s both familiar and a little special, making it perfect for casual dinners or impressing guests without a fuss.

What Goes In

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta – The star of the dish, perfect for holding sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing chicken and mushrooms.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – Tender, bite-sized pieces.
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – Adds umami and meaty texture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Brings aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Earthy herbal note.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Sweet and fragrant herb.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a gentle spicy kick.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Builds the sauce base.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich and velvety sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a savory, cheesy finish.
• Chopped parsley for garnish – Adds freshness and color.

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot – To boil the rigatoni pasta perfectly.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – Ideal for cooking chicken, mushrooms, and preparing the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Colander – To drain the pasta after cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.

Mastering Chicken and Mushroom Rigatoni: How-To

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they release their juices and begin to brown. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy sauce. Add the drained rigatoni, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Garnish

Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving for a fresh, colorful finish.

Swap Guide

• Use penne or rigatoni as an alternative pasta shape if needed.
• Replace chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
• Try thyme or rosemary instead of oregano and basil for a different herbal note.

Chef’s Notes

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should remain juicy and tender to complement the creamy sauce.
• Fresh mushrooms work best, but if using canned, drain well to avoid excess liquid in the sauce.
• For an extra cheesy boost, add some mozzarella or fontina along with the Parmesan.
• If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount for a more intense flavor.
• This recipe pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken and Mushroom Rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle also work wonderfully in this recipe.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture, but you can substitute it with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Bake – A comforting baked pasta dish with creamy mushroom sauce and tender chicken.
• Creamy Mushroom Garlic Chicken Pasta – A garlicky, creamy pasta with mushrooms and chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Chicken Alfredo Pasta – Classic creamy Alfredo sauce paired with juicy chicken and fettuccine.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta – Bright and zesty pasta with fresh lemon, garlic, and tender chicken.

Hungry for More?

If this Chicken and Mushroom Rigatoni has you craving more creamy, flavorful pasta dishes, be sure to explore the wide variety of recipes available that combine simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. Whether you want to try a baked pasta or a garlic-infused classic, there’s a recipe waiting to become your next favorite.

Rich, creamy, and bursting with savory goodness, Chicken and Mushroom Rigatoni is a true comfort food champion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal on your table in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekends, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. So grab your rigatoni, sauté that chicken and mushrooms, and dive into this deliciously creamy pasta experience tonight!

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