Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a home-cooked meal, and one of my all-time favorites is Spicy Chicken Rigatoni. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was nothing short of magical. The combination of tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce over perfectly cooked rigatoni creates a comforting bowl of deliciousness that warms you from the inside out. My family couldn’t get enough of it! Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, and I love how the heat from the crushed red pepper adds just the right amount of kick without overwhelming the palate. This recipe has become a staple in our household, especially on busy weeknights when I want to whip up something quick yet satisfying.

What You’ll Need for Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

The ingredients for Spicy Chicken Rigatoni are simple, yet they create something extraordinary when combined. Each item plays a vital role in the flavor profile of the dish, enhancing the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – About 1.5 pounds, cut into thin strips. This is the star protein of the dish, bringing flavor and heartiness.
• Minced Garlic – 1 tablespoon, or about 3-4 cloves. Garlic adds depth and a savory aroma that is simply irresistible.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flake – 1 tablespoon, plus more for garnish. This spice brings the heat and a beautiful color to your sauce.
• Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon. A classic seasoning that enhances the flavors of the chicken.
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon. Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Olive Oil – 3-4 tablespoons. Used for cooking the chicken, adding richness to the dish.
• Heavy Cream – 2 cups. This is what makes the sauce creamy and luscious.
• Marinara Sauce – 2 cups. A flavorful base that adds acidity and sweetness.
• Peas – ½ cup. These add a pop of color and a bit of sweetness.
• Rigatoni Noodles – 1 pound, cooked al dente. The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the delicious sauce.
• Unsalted Butter – 2 tablespoons. Adds richness and a velvety finish to the dish.
• Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese – For garnish. A sprinkle of this brings a wonderful umami flavor.

Cooking Method for Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

Cooking Spicy Chicken Rigatoni is an enjoyable experience that allows you to engage your senses. As you prepare this dish, you’ll notice the enticing aromas of the ingredients coming together, making your kitchen smell heavenly. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious meal!

1. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flake, and black pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until you can smell the garlic’s fragrant aroma. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent burning!
2. Next, add the thin strips of chicken breast and salt to the pan. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink. You’ll want the chicken to have a light golden brown color on the edges, which adds flavor.
3. Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat the chicken evenly, then add in the heavy cream. Mix well and let the sauce combine, creating a creamy texture.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes. This is crucial as it helps all the flavors meld together. You’ll notice the sauce thickening slightly, which is a good sign!
5. Next, add the unsalted butter and peas to the skillet. Stir until the butter melts completely, which will add a rich flavor to your sauce.
6. Finally, gently mix in the cooked rigatoni noodles until they’re well coated with the sauce. Be careful not to break the pasta, as you want it to maintain its shape.
7. Once everything is well combined, garnish your dish with fresh grated parmesan cheese and a pinch or two of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat and color.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy with your favorite side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Recipe Tips about Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience with Spicy Chicken Rigatoni.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream to bring back the sauce’s richness.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to complement the creamy sauce. A glass of lemon water can help cleanse the palate.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Cooking in Advance: You can prepare the sauce a day ahead. Just reheat and mix it with the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
• Mind the Salt: Since marinara sauce can be salty, taste the dish before adding extra salt. Adjust to your preference.

Great Combinations for Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

When it comes to serving Spicy Chicken Rigatoni, there are numerous delicious accompaniments to enhance the meal.

• Side Salads: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic side that complements the richness of the rigatoni and is great for scooping up any leftover sauce.
• Seasonal Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or asparagus, can add a lovely touch of color and nutrition to your plate.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep for busy weekdays.
• Leftovers: They make for a perfect next-day lunch! Just reheat and enjoy.
• Pair with a Beverage: A sparkling water or iced tea works wonders to balance the heat of the dish.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spicy Chicken Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it for your family or friends. Trust me, it will quickly become a favorite in your home, just like it did in mine. Enjoy the warmth and comfort that comes with each delicious bite!

Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

The ultimate comfort food, Spicy Chicken Rigatoni combines creamy sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavors, inviting you to indulge in every bite. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Cut into thin strips.
• 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic About 3-4 cloves.
• 1 tablespoon Crushed Red Pepper Flake More for garnish.
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• 3-4 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 cups Heavy Cream
• 2 cups Marinara Sauce
• ½ cup Peas
• 1 pound Rigatoni Noodles Cooked al dente.
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese For garnish.

Equipment

• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Saucepan
• Frying Pan
• Skillet

Method

 

1. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flake, and black pepper to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add in thin strips of chicken breast and salt, and cook until chicken is fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes.
3. First, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and stir, then add in heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Add in the butter and peas and stir until the butter melts.
5. Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce and garnish with fresh parmesan cheese and a pinch or two of red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream to bring back the sauce’s richness.
• Tip 2: This dish can be frozen! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to complement the creamy sauce. A glass of lemon water can help cleanse the palate.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Tip 5: You can prepare the sauce a day ahead. Just reheat and mix it with the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
• Tip 6: Since marinara sauce can be salty, taste the dish before adding extra salt. Adjust to your preference.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.