Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a great choice. This dish features ground chicken and rigatoni pasta, all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings or gatherings. Plus, it’s packed with flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. Let’s explore how to make this delicious recipe and what makes it so special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Chicken and Rigatoni recipe for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The rich and creamy sauce, made from chicken broth and heavy cream, gives your dish a smooth texture that’s hard to resist. You can also easily switch out the protein for shrimp or mushrooms, adding variety to your meals. Additionally, the velvety butter garlic sauce coats the pasta perfectly, enhancing every bite.

In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready, fitting perfectly into your schedule. Plus, this recipe packs a nutritional punch, offering around 28 grams of protein and balanced carbohydrates per serving.

It’s a satisfying dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor or health, making it a winner for everyone.

History

Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce has a rich history rooted in Italian-American cuisine. This dish emerged from the creativity of Italian immigrants in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They adapted traditional recipes, like eggplant parmesan, to fit American tastes and ingredients.

While these dishes draw inspiration from Italian cuisine, you won’t typically find them in Italy. The comforting flavors of chicken and rigatoni became popular among Italian-American families, reflecting a blend of cultures. The use of staple ingredients, such as parmesan cheese and garlic, showcases the Italian influence. As you enjoy this dish, remember its journey, highlighting the cultural exchange between Italy and America through food. One-pot dish for easy clean-up is a feature that makes it even more appealing for busy families.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken or chicken breast
– 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Heavy cream for a creamier sauce
– Optional: Fresh basil or red pepper flakes for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta until it’s almost al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion, chopped carrot, and chopped celery until they’re softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the ground chicken to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
If desired, stir in heavy cream for a creamier sauce.
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the chicken and sauce mixture, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Top the rigatoni with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes if desired.

Extra Tips:
When cooking this dish, feel free to experiment with the flavors by adding your favorite herbs or spices. This recipe is versatile, allowing for various flavor additions. If you want to save time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can make this recipe even quicker.

For an extra crispy topping, consider sprinkling Italian bread crumbs on top before baking.

Finally, serving the dish with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables can provide a revitalizing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and rigatoni. Enjoy your meal!

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your cooking adventure with this Chicken and Rigatoni dish, remember that it’s not just about following the recipe; it’s about making it your own.

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients, whether you want to swap chicken for mushrooms for a vegetarian option or add red pepper flakes for some spice. This dish is versatile and can fit various occasions, from family dinners to impressing friends.

Pair it with a fresh salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Additionally, this dish is a great source of high protein due to the chicken content.

Enjoy the creamy, flavorful experience, and take pride in your delicious creation that reflects your personal touch.

Happy cooking!

FAQ

What should you know about making Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan sauce? This dish hails from Italy, especially Rome, and features key ingredients like rigatoni pasta, chicken, and a creamy parmesan sauce.

Start by boiling rigatoni until it’s al dente, then mix it with cooked chicken and the sauce. You can also add marinara sauce, garlic, or Italian seasonings for extra flavor. The rigatoni’s ridges help retain the creamy sauce, making each bite flavorful.

Feel free to customize with vegetables or use shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.

This recipe serves about six people, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings. Enjoy this hearty dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment!