This Spicy Chicken Rigatoni is a quick and flavorful one-pot pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breast, a spicy marinara sauce, and creamy rigatoni come together in a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to please anyone who loves a little heat with their comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors and creamy pasta, this Spicy Chicken Rigatoni is a must-try! It combines the heat of crushed red pepper with the richness of heavy cream, creating a flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the al dente rigatoni. The tender, juicy chicken adds a satisfying protein punch to this hearty dish. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons tomato paste
20-ounce can crushed tomatoes
15-ounce can tomato sauce
1 lb rigatoni pasta, cooked al dente
½ cup heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, optional

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on one side.
Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a platter and keep warm.
Add the diced onion to the same pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic, crushed red pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another minute.
Add the tomato paste and stir to combine with the aromatics.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta and heavy cream to the sauce. Stir to combine and coat the pasta.
Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir it into the pasta.
Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 475 kcal per serving

Variations

Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce.
Make it Spicier: If you love heat, add extra crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Use Chicken Thighs: Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
Go Lighter: Use half-and-half or milk in place of the heavy cream for a lighter version of the dish.
Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the rigatoni for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Spicy Chicken Rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave individual servings until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the pasta and cream when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! If you don’t have rigatoni, you can use any other pasta shape you like, such as penne, ziti, or farfalle.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or even roasted vegetables.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

For more spice, you can increase the crushed red pepper, add some chili flakes, or use a spicy marinara sauce. You can also add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Can I freeze Spicy Chicken Rigatoni?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Spicy Chicken Rigatoni?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would complement the spicy flavors perfectly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a non-dairy cream, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also check by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken; it should no longer be pink inside.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can skip the cooking step and simply add the shredded or diced chicken to the sauce after it’s simmered.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make more servings. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the extra pasta and sauce.

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Rigatoni is a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that combines spicy, creamy, and savory elements into one delicious meal. With tender chicken, spicy marinara, and creamy rigatoni, it’s the perfect dinner for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the balance of heat and comfort in every bite!