Hey foodies! Are you ready to dive into a delicious and easy-to-make meal that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser? We're talking about a classic: Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta! This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It's also super adaptable, so you can tweak it to your liking. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be your go-to for a flavorful and comforting pasta dish. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta

Alright, guys, let me tell you why this chicken penne rigate pasta recipe is a winner. First off, it's incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you're craving. Got some leftover veggies in the fridge? Toss them in! Want a little extra kick? Add some red pepper flakes! Secondly, it's a one-pan wonder (or mostly one-pan, we'll get to the pasta separately). This means less cleanup, which we all love, right? The creamy sauce coats the penne rigate perfectly, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Finally, it's a dish that appeals to everyone. Kids, adults – everyone loves it! It's comfort food at its finest, offering a balance of protein, carbs, and veggies. It's the perfect meal for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a cozy night in on your own. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out. So, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of making this amazing dish. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or even rotisserie chicken from the store. You can customize the sauce to your liking. If you enjoy a spicy meal, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For those who prefer a less spicy meal, consider adding some fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, to add flavor. You can also vary the vegetables based on your personal preference. Add mushrooms, broccoli, or bell peppers.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you'll need:

• Penne Rigate Pasta: 1 pound. (Penne rigate is perfect for holding the sauce, but you can use other pasta shapes if you prefer. Just make sure it's something that will catch the sauce well.)
• Chicken Breast: 1.5 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces. (You can also use chicken thighs or even pre-cooked chicken to save time.)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. (Because, garlic!)
• Bell Pepper: 1 (any color), chopped. (Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add a nice sweetness and color.)
• Heavy Cream: 1.5 cups. (This is what makes the sauce extra creamy and delicious. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version.)
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup. (This adds extra flavor to the sauce.)
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, plus more for garnish. (Freshly grated is best for the best flavor.)
• Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. (Don't be shy with the seasoning!)
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish, chopped. (Adds a fresh touch at the end.)

Equipment

• Large skillet or pan
• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Chicken Penne Rigate

Now, let's get cooking! Here's a step-by-step guide to making your delicious chicken penne rigate pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne rigate pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This pasta water is key for adjusting the sauce's consistency later on.
2. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the chicken. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the Italian seasoning. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

That's it, guys! Your amazing chicken penne rigate is ready to be devoured! It's such a simple process, yet the result is so satisfying. The key to this dish is using quality ingredients and not being afraid to season well. Remember, you can adjust the ingredients based on your preference. If you like more veggies, add more! If you like more cheese, go for it!

Tips and Variations for the Best Results

Want to take your chicken penne rigate to the next level? Here are some tips and variations to try:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Add veggies: Feel free to throw in other veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Sauté them with the onions and bell peppers.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little cream cheese instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can add a lot of flavor. Stir them in at the end.
• Grill the chicken: For extra flavor, grill the chicken before adding it to the pasta. This gives it a nice smoky taste.
• Use rotisserie chicken: To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the sauce with the other ingredients.
• Make it ahead: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Nobody wants mushy pasta! Cook the pasta al dente.
• Undercooking the chicken: Make sure your chicken is cooked through to avoid any health risks.
• Not seasoning enough: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Adding too much liquid: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce and thicken.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and tastes much better than pre-shredded cheese. It makes a big difference!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Alright, you've got your beautiful Chicken Penne Rigate ready. But what to serve with it? Here are some serving suggestions and side dishes to make your meal complete:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are great healthy options.
• Crusty Bread: Toasted crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce.
• Wine: A glass of chilled white wine or a light-bodied red wine complements the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here's how to store and reheat your Chicken Penne Rigate:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently to avoid hot spots.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Dinner

So there you have it, folks! Your new go-to recipe for Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta. It's easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is sure to impress. Don't be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Get creative, have fun in the kitchen, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results! Happy cooking!

I hope you enjoy making this easy and delicious Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your liking and add any ingredients you enjoy. Don't be afraid to experiment! This dish is a great foundation, so feel free to make it your own. And remember, the most important ingredient is love (and maybe a little bit of Parmesan cheese!). Enjoy your meal, and happy cooking, guys! This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also adaptable, so you can tweak it to your liking and make it your own! The balance of protein, carbs, and veggies makes it a well-rounded dish. It’s a great dish for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a cozy night in on your own. It is the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out.

Enjoy this flavorful pasta dish, and happy cooking!