Introduction
This delightful pasta dish brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, resulting in a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Paired with rigatoni pasta, this recipe is not only satisfying but also simple to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this delicious dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 ounces dry rigatoni pasta
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, finely diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup dry white wine
1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream, room temperature
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
With these ingredients and steps, you can create a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to please your family or guests. Enjoy your cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they become golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Cook the Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until golden. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Add White Wine
Pour in the dry white wine and allow it to simmer until much of it has evaporated, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 7: Add Liquids
Add the reserved pasta cooking water and chicken broth to the pan and bring to a simmer.
Step 8: Incorporate Heavy Cream
Add the heavy cream and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Step 9: Combine Chicken and Mushrooms
Return the cooked chicken and mushrooms to the pan. Stir until well combined and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
Step 10: Add Parmesan and Pasta
Mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 11: Serve
Divide the pasta among four plates or bowls. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Note 1:
Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken for safety.
Note 2:
You can adjust the amount of garlic or cheese according to your preference.
Note 3:
Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the dish’s saltiness.
Note 4:
Fresh parsley not only garnishes the dish but also adds a fresh flavor.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Preparing Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry for better browning. Cut into bite-sized pieces and season with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
Sautéing
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken until browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
Cooking Mushrooms
In the same pan, add more olive oil and sauté sliced cremini mushrooms until golden brown, about 5 minutes. This adds a rich flavor to the dish.
Sautéing Aromatics
Add diced onions and cook until golden, then add minced garlic, sautéing briefly until fragrant, to build a flavorful base.
Deglazing
Pour in dry white wine after cooking the aromatics, allowing it to simmer and evaporate, which helps lift the flavorful bits from the pan.
Making the Sauce
Combine reserved pasta water and chicken broth with the wine reduction, then incorporate heavy cream as it simmers to create a creamy sauce.
Combining Ingredients
Return the chicken and mushrooms to the pan, then mix in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is well-coated.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta instead of rigatoni?
Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or fusilli, keeping cooking times in mind.
What can I use instead of dry white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with more chicken broth or a splash of vinegar mixed with water.
How do I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components in advance. Store the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce separately and combine before serving.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or additional mushrooms for a vegetarian dish.
Conclusion
This creamy rigatoni pasta dish, featuring tender chicken and sautéed mushrooms, makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. The rich flavors of garlic, white wine, and Parmesan meld beautifully, creating a delightful dining experience that is perfect for any night of the week.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Variation
Substitute the chicken with grilled zucchini and bell peppers. Add spinach for a pop of color and nutritional value, while keeping the creamy sauce for richness.
Seafood Twist
Replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops, adding them just before the cream to ensure they cook perfectly. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Mushroom Medley
Use a mixture of different mushrooms, such as shiitake and portobello, for a deeper flavor. Enhance the umami by adding a splash of soy sauce to the sauce.
Spicy Chicken Rigatoni
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dish for a spicy twist. Consider also adding fresh lime juice before serving for a zesty flavor.
Garden Herb Pasta
Infuse the dish with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic touch. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
Cheesy Broccoli Addition
Mix in steamed broccoli florets prior to serving for added texture and nutrition. A sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top can create an extra cheesy finish.
