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Savory Chicken Rigatoni in Spiced Tomato Sauce

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Chicken Rigatoni with Tomato Sauce and Spices: A Hearty, Flavorful Dish

If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful Italian dishes, this Chicken Rigatoni recipe is sure to please everyone at your dinner table. Full of tender chicken, a rich, spiced tomato sauce, and a dash of Italian seasoning, this dish brings the essence of Italy right to your home. It’s a recipe I rediscovered after revisiting old favorites, and now it’s become a staple in my kitchen. It’s simple, full of flavor, and can be customized based on what you have in your pantry.


Recipe Overview:

Attribute Details
Recipe Name Chicken Rigatoni
Category Chicken Breast
Cuisine European (Italian-inspired)
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450.8 kcal per serving
Difficulty Easy
Rating 5 stars based on 3 reviews

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious chicken rigatoni dish:

Ingredient Quantity Description/Usage
Chicken breasts 4 pieces Boneless, skinless; the star of this dish, providing a tender, juicy base.
Olive oil 1/4 cup Used for browning the chicken and giving the sauce a smooth, rich texture.
Tomato paste 1 tablespoon Adds depth to the tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
Water 1/4 cup Used to thin the tomato paste and create a sauce base.
Tomato sauce 1 cup Provides a smooth, tangy base for the sauce.
Whole tomatoes 2 Adds texture and fresh flavor to the sauce; break them up as they cook.
Ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon A warming, aromatic spice to enhance the flavor profile.
Allspice 1/4 teaspoon Brings a sweet and spicy kick to the sauce.
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon Adds just a hint of heat to balance the flavors.
Salt 1/2 teaspoon To taste, bringing all the ingredients together.
Cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon A surprising but delightful addition to deepen the flavor of the sauce.
Rosemary 1 teaspoon Adds a fragrant, earthy note to the sauce.
Dried parsley 1 tablespoon Adds a subtle herby flavor and a touch of color to the sauce.
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon For an extra layer of savory flavor in the sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient Amount
Calories 450.8 kcal
Fat 27.7 g
Saturated Fat 5.8 g
Cholesterol 92.8 mg
Sodium 1912 mg
Carbohydrates 17.8 g
Fiber 4.8 g
Sugar 11.3 g
Protein 35.1 g

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:

    • Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan.
    • Brown the chicken on both sides, about 5 minutes per side, until the chicken is golden and slightly crisp. This helps seal in the juices and enhances the overall flavor.
    • Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Make the Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will deepen the flavor of the tomato base.
    • Add water, tomato sauce, and whole tomatoes to the pan. Break up the whole tomatoes with a spoon to create a chunky texture.
    • Stir in the ground cloves, allspice, black pepper, salt, cinnamon, rosemary, dried parsley, and garlic powder. Mix well, and bring the sauce to a boil.
  3. Simmer the Chicken:

    • Once the sauce is boiling, return the browned chicken breasts to the pan. Stir gently to coat the chicken with the sauce.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. The chicken will absorb the flavors of the sauce, becoming tender and infused with aromatic spices.
  4. (Optional) Slow Cooker Variation:

    • If you prefer to use a slow cooker, brown the chicken as directed and then transfer it to the slow cooker.
    • Add the sauce ingredients, spices, and the browned chicken to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks.
  5. Serve the Dish:

    • While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
    • Once the chicken is done, remove it from the sauce and shred or slice it into bite-sized pieces.
    • Serve the shredded chicken over a bed of rigatoni, spooning generous amounts of the flavorful tomato sauce over the top. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

  • This Chicken Rigatoni pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a light, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
  • For an extra touch of Italian authenticity, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta before serving.
  • If you’re following a low-carb diet, you can easily substitute the rigatoni with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a healthy alternative.

Pro Tips:

  • Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
  • Freeze for Later: If you want to freeze this dish, prepare the sauce and chicken as instructed, then allow it to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
  • Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you prefer a little heat in your meal. This will give the dish a wonderful, spicy kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Flavorful: With a mix of warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and rosemary, this dish is brimming with depth and complexity.
  • Easy to Make: Whether you opt for the stovetop or slow cooker version, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort for a satisfying result.
  • Family-Friendly: This dish is a great way to introduce your family to bold, comforting flavors while still keeping things simple enough for even the pickiest eaters.
  • Versatile: You can adjust the seasoning and vegetables based on what you have on hand. Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for a boost of color and nutrition.

Enjoy this delightful Chicken Rigatoni with tomato sauce the next time you’re craving a comforting, homemade meal. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves them asking for seconds.

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