There’s something so satisfying about twirling rich, creamy pasta on your fork, especially when it’s packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a luxurious sauce. This Creamy Chicken & Spinach Rigatoni is like a warm hug in a bowl, and it’s perfect for a cozy lunch or an easy weeknight dinner. 🍝
I first made this dish on a chilly afternoon when I was craving something hearty yet wholesome. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, it quickly became a family favorite. Trust me, this dish will become your go-to comfort food too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy days!
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor – even picky eaters will love it.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
- Pin-Worthy: It looks as good as it tastes. Think golden-brown chicken, vibrant green spinach, and a silky sauce – perfect for that Pinterest board! 📌
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy pasta dish:
- 8 oz rigatoni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (loosely packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Substitutions
- Rigatoni: Swap for penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.
- Chicken: Use turkey or shrimp for a twist. Want a vegetarian option? Add mushrooms or roasted butternut squash.
- Spinach: Kale or arugula work beautifully too.
How to Make Creamy Chicken & Spinach Rigatoni
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine It All
Reduce the heat to low, then toss in the cooked rigatoni, chicken, and fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper, and enjoy immediately. Don’t forget to snap a quick photo before diving in – this dish is made for Instagram and Pinterest!
Pro Tips for the Best Rigatoni
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the rigatoni holds up in the sauce.
- Season As You Go: Layer flavor at every step – from the chicken to the sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and Parmesan elevate this dish into something truly special.
How to Serve and Store
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with warm garlic bread to mop up every bit of sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color (and extra flavor!).
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.
How to Make It Pinterest-Perfect
Presentation is everything on Pinterest! Here are some styling tips:
- Use White Plates: The creamy sauce and golden chicken pop beautifully against a white background.
- Garnish Generously: Sprinkle extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves on top for that irresistible, polished look.
- Capture the Moment: Take your photo in natural light with a few props, like a fork twirling the pasta or a rustic napkin. Don’t forget to pin it to your food boards! 📸
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately and toss everything together with the sauce just before serving.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can work as lighter alternatives. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce.
Pin It for Later! 📌
Love this recipe? Don’t forget to pin it to your favorite recipe board! Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a last-minute dinner idea, this Creamy Chicken & Spinach Rigatoni is sure to impress. Happy cooking!