Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt, for boiling water
For the Chicken:
2 chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp red chili flakes
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Add rigatoni and cook until al dente. Drain, toss with olive oil, and set aside.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium heat.
Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Stir in red chili flakes and diced cherry tomatoes. Simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Toss the cooked rigatoni in the creamy sauce until well-coated.
Plate the pasta and top with sliced grilled chicken.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish.
Serve hot and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors!
Tips:
Adjust chili flakes for more or less heat.
Pair with a light green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
A glass of chilled white wine complements this dish perfectly!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped (mince garlic, dice tomatoes, grate Parmesan). Begin boiling water for pasta—salting it generously is key. While pasta cooks, season and grill the chicken. Letting it rest before slicing is crucial for juiciness. For the sauce, use medium heat to melt butter and gently sauté garlic without browning it. When adding cream and broth, stir constantly. Incorporate the Parmesan off the heat to prevent clumping, then return to a simmer. Finally, combine pasta, sauce, and chicken in the skillet to let the flavors meld for a minute before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in shallow bowls. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve with warm, crusty garlic bread. A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.
How-to Summary
Boil and drain rigatoni. Grill seasoned chicken breasts and slice. Create a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, adding cream and broth, then whisking in Parmesan. Stir in chili flakes and tomatoes. Toss pasta in sauce, top with chicken, and garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes. Penne or fettuccine work well, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the sauce will be less thick.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can prep components separately, but combine just before serving as the pasta can absorb the sauce.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk.
What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or create a slurry with 1 tsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp water, then whisk it in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta. Cook only to al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to boiling sauce, which can cause it to clump. Remove from heat or use low heat when whisking it in.
- Skipping the chicken rest time, which releases juices and leads to dry meat.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt smoothly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni is a restaurant-quality meal achievable in your own kitchen. By balancing rich, creamy sauce with savory grilled chicken and vibrant tomatoes, it delivers comfort and sophistication. Following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls ensures a flawless dish every time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.