Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni
Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food that adds a touch of Italian flair to your dinner table. This creamy and garlicky pasta dish comes with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, making it a delightful meal that is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special dish for date night, this recipe has you covered with its rich flavors and mouthwatering aroma.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni recipe combines some of the best elements of Italian cuisine: rich cream, savory spices, and fresh vegetables. The rigatoni pasta perfectly holds on to the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the last. The tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach not only add a variety of textures but also contribute to a well-balanced flavor profile. This dish is easy to make, requires common ingredients, and can be on the table in about 45 minutes. It’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special.
Pro Tips for Making Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni
1. **Choose the Right Pasta**: While rigatoni is recommended for this dish due to its shape and texture, you can also use penne or fusilli if preferred. The key is to ensure the pasta can hold the sauce well.
2. **Seasoning is Key**: Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken. Properly seasoning it will ensure it shines in the dish. Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste.
3. **Fresh Ingredients**: Using fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes enhances the dish’s flavor and nutritional value. If using sun-dried tomatoes, pick those packed in oil for added richness.
4. **Don’t Rush the Sauce**: Allowing the cream, milk, and cheese to simmer gently helps meld the flavors together. Stir frequently and don’t let the sauce boil to avoid curdling.
5. **Garnish with Fresh Herbs**: Garnishing your dish with freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshens the overall flavor.
Ingredients
This Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni recipe calls for the following ingredients, which blend to create a rich and creamy sauce bursting with flavors:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup finely diced shallot
- 0.5 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them on both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until fully cooked. Once done, let the chicken rest, then slice it into strips.
Step 3: In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking them until soft, approximately 2-3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic along with tomato paste, oregano, and paprika, stirring everything together until fragrant.
Step 5: Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to combine. Add the spinach, grated Parmesan, and halved cherry tomatoes. Simmer the sauce on low simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Finally, add the drained rigatoni to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in sauce. Plate the pasta, topping each serving with sliced chicken and garnishing with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular rigatoni with a gluten-free pasta variety like brown rice or chickpea pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if pasta appears dry.
Can I substitute chicken with something else?
Sure! This recipe also works well with shrimp or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Is there a dairy-free substitution for the cream?
Yes, you can use coconut milk or any plant-based heavy cream alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
Can I freeze this dish?
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the sauce and cooked pasta separately. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat them together.
Conclusion
This Tuscan Chicken Rigatoni is a delectable dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting meal that is genuinely restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a delicious pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Delight in the rich Italian flavors as you savor each bite, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family!
