Chicken Riggies is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish originating from Upstate New York. It combines tender chicken, rigatoni pasta, and a creamy, slightly spicy tomato sauce loaded with peppers, onions, and a blend of Italian seasonings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a comfort-food favorite that’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
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12 oz rigatoni pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 small onion, diced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 25 minutes
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Total time: 40 minutes
Serving
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Serves 4
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for another minute until fragrant. -
Prepare the Sauce:
Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 8–10 minutes to blend the flavors. Reduce heat, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth. -
Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Add cooked rigatoni and toss everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
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Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes for desired spiciness.
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You can use grilled or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
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Add mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and flavor.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 520
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Fat: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 50g
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Protein: 32g
Chicken Riggies is a creamy, slightly spicy pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich tomato-cream sauce — a satisfying, flavorful meal everyone will enjoy.
