Hey foodies! Are you ready to dive into a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will have you coming back for seconds? Today, we're whipping up a Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta recipe that's perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. This recipe is super adaptable, and you can tweak it to your liking, making it a new family favorite. We're talking juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, a creamy sauce, and a burst of flavors that'll make your taste buds sing. Let's get cooking, shall we?

Why This Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta Recipe is a Winner

Okay, guys, let's talk about why this chicken penne rigate pasta recipe is a total winner. First off, it's incredibly easy to make. Even if you're a beginner in the kitchen, you can totally nail this recipe. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available at your local grocery store. Secondly, the flavor profile is amazing! The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne rigate (that's the ridged pasta), and a rich, creamy sauce is simply irresistible. This pasta dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. You've got the satisfying bite of the pasta, the juicy chicken, and the creamy sauce that ties everything together. The recipe also offers flexibility. Feel free to add your favorite veggies, herbs, or spices to customize it. Want more heat? Add some red pepper flakes. Prefer a cheesy kick? Sprinkle extra parmesan on top. The possibilities are endless! Ultimately, it's a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this chicken penne rigate pasta is guaranteed to be a hit. It's comforting, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. This dish is also pretty versatile. It's a great option for meal prepping, allowing you to have a delicious and convenient lunch or dinner ready throughout the week. You can easily store the leftovers in the fridge for a couple of days. Believe me, the flavors only get better overnight! I think you'll find it a great recipe to introduce to your meal plan.

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our ingredients for this amazing Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta dish. Don't worry, the list is simple, and you probably have some of these items already in your pantry. Let's start with the star of the show: the pasta. You'll need 1 pound of penne rigate. Penne rigate is a type of pasta with ridges, which is ideal because the sauce clings to it beautifully. Next, we have the chicken. You'll want about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Then we need the sauce ingredients: 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves of garlic, minced, 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version), 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste. For some extra flavor and color, we're adding some herbs. You'll need 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat). And finally, for garnish: fresh parsley, chopped. Don't worry if you don't have all the exact ingredients on hand. Feel free to substitute based on what you have available. For example, if you don't have fresh parsley, you can use dried. If you want to add some veggies, consider adding some bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Feel free to adapt the recipe based on your preferences. Now that we have all our ingredients ready, we are ready to get started. I am excited about it!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, guys, it's time to get our hands dirty and start cooking this Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta! Follow these easy steps, and you'll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time. First, let's start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne rigate and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, we'll prepare the chicken and sauce. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken and cook until it's golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Now it is time to add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Finally, serve the chicken penne rigate pasta immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. And there you have it – a delicious and easy meal ready to be enjoyed! Don't be afraid to adjust the cooking times based on your stove and the pasta's recommendations. Let's get cooking!

Tips and Variations to Elevate Your Pasta

Let's spice up the Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta recipe with some awesome tips and variations to make it even better. First, let's chat about the chicken. To make the chicken extra flavorful, you can marinate it before cooking. Try marinating the chicken in Italian dressing, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes. This will infuse the chicken with more flavor. If you want to change up the protein, feel free to use ground chicken or even Italian sausage instead of chicken breasts. For the sauce, you can add a touch of sweetness by stirring in a teaspoon of sugar. This helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Want a richer sauce? Add a tablespoon of butter at the end. For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Regarding vegetables, don't be afraid to add some veggies! Sauté some bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach with the onions and garlic for added nutrients and flavor. Consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. They pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and chicken. To change things up, try using different types of pasta. While penne rigate is classic, you can also use other shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle. Don't be afraid to experiment! And finally, the cheese! Use a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a more diverse cheese flavor. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil on top for a fresh flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and try different ingredients to find what you like best. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Now that you've got your amazing Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta ready, let's talk about how to serve it and what to pair it with for a complete and satisfying meal. You've got options! First, serve it immediately while it's hot and creamy. It's best enjoyed right off the stove. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Offer some grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to add to their liking. Consider a side of crusty bread. It's perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce. And for a lighter side, a fresh green salad is a fantastic choice. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the pasta perfectly. You can also try a side of roasted vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are great options. Don't forget the drinks! A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and chicken. Or, if you prefer, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade will do the trick. For a more casual meal, consider serving the pasta family-style, straight from the pot. This is great for a relaxed and informal gathering. If you're planning a dinner party, consider setting up a pasta bar. Offer different toppings like extra cheese, herbs, and red pepper flakes. This allows your guests to customize their pasta to their liking. No matter how you serve it, this chicken penne rigate pasta is sure to be a hit. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic meal!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Let's talk about storage and reheating instructions so you can enjoy your delicious Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta even days after you've made it. If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the pasta cool completely before storing it. Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave. Place a portion of the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat it, or the pasta may become dry. Alternatively, you can reheat the pasta on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or a little bit of the sauce to the pasta in a pan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. This will help keep the pasta from drying out. Another option is to reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remember to stir the pasta occasionally while reheating to ensure even heating. If the sauce has thickened while stored, add a splash of water or cream to loosen it up. If you're meal prepping, you can store individual portions in separate containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Be sure to label and date the containers. Leftover pasta is great! Enjoy your amazing creation without having to spend all day in the kitchen. Enjoy it, friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Alright, let's tackle some frequently asked questions about this fantastic Chicken Penne Rigate Pasta recipe! First, what type of pasta is best for this recipe? Penne rigate is ideal because the ridges help the sauce cling to the pasta. However, you can use other types of pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Can I use different types of meat? Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, Italian sausage, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. What if I don't have heavy cream? You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. How can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to your plate. Can I add vegetables to the recipe? Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Sauté them with the onions and garlic. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with the pasta when you're ready to serve. Can I freeze the leftovers? It's generally not recommended to freeze the pasta with the creamy sauce, as the texture may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the sauce separately. Just thaw and reheat it before adding it to the cooked pasta. I hope these answers have been helpful! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask! Let's get cooking!