Chicken Rigatoni

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Chicken Rigatoni. It’s a dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a keeper. Let’s dive into the details that make this Chicken Rigatoni a standout meal!

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Chicken Rigatoni lies in its simplicity and the harmony of flavors. The combination of cream cheese and marinara sauce creates a rich, creamy base that clings to each piece of rigatoni, while the chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful. The peas add a pop of color and sweetness, balancing the richness of the dish. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delicious Chicken Rigatoni, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound dry rigatoni noodles (1 box)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cubed)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 8 ounces cream cheese (1 brick, cut into small pieces)
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (1 jar)
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more, for garnish)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Must-Have Equipment

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary equipment:

• Large pot: For boiling the rigatoni noodles.
• Skillet: To sauté the chicken and combine the sauce.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the chicken and garlic.

Chicken Rigatoni: From Prep to Plate

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Chicken Rigatoni.

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken thighs and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Sauté the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and formed a creamy base. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and marinara sauce, mixing well to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 5: Incorporate the Peas

Stir in the peas, allowing them to heat through. The peas will add a lovely pop of color and sweetness to the dish.

Step 6: Combine with Rigatoni

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined. This will give the dish an extra layer of flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Chicken Rigatoni in bowls, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil if desired. Enjoy the warm, creamy goodness!

Make It Fit Your Plan

This Chicken Rigatoni recipe is versatile and can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-free: Substitute the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• Lightened up: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and heavy cream.
• Extra protein: Add beans or chickpeas for a plant-based protein boost.

What I Learned Testing

During my testing of this Chicken Rigatoni recipe, several key insights emerged:

• Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs results in a juicier and more flavorful dish compared to chicken breasts.
• Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps to adjust the sauce consistency and adds a bit of starchiness that helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
• Feel free to experiment with different marinara sauces; homemade or store-bought, each will bring its unique flavor to the dish.
• Adding the peas towards the end preserves their bright color and texture, ensuring they don’t become mushy.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Chicken Rigatoni is perfect for meal prep and makes for great leftovers. Here are some tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
• This dish also freezes well; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Quick Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may take a bit longer to cook, and the final dish might be slightly less juicy than using thighs.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut cream and cashew cream cheese, for a creamy consistency.

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use any tomato-based sauce, such as arrabbiata or a homemade tomato sauce. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! Chicken Rigatoni is generally a kid-friendly dish with its creamy sauce and pasta. You can adjust the seasoning to make it milder if needed.

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Time to Try It

Now that you have all the information, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make this delightful Chicken Rigatoni! Not only will your taste buds thank you, but your loved ones will also appreciate the effort you put into this comforting meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this Chicken Rigatoni recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!