Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni

If you’re craving a comforting yet vibrant pasta dish, look no further than this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, al dente rigatoni, and a luscious tomato basil cream sauce that’s both rich and fresh. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples with fresh herbs to create a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish hits all the right notes for flavor, texture, and ease.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni is the kind of recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal when friends come over. The sauce is creamy without being heavy, thanks to the perfect balance of tomatoes and cream, and the fresh basil adds a fragrant brightness that elevates every bite. Plus, the rigatoni pasta is ideal for holding onto the sauce in its ridges, making each forkful a satisfying taste adventure. If you love recipes like the Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta, this one will quickly become a new favorite.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot – for boiling rigatoni pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook chicken and sauce
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices and the dried basil. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to create that luscious creamy texture. Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy tomato basil sauce. Add the drained rigatoni and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Garnish

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss once more until the cheese melts into the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving for a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

• Swap dried basil with fresh chopped basil for a brighter, more aromatic flavor.
• Add sautéed zucchini or bell peppers in summer for extra veggies and color.
• In fall or winter, stir in some roasted butternut squash cubes for sweetness.
• Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and added depth.

Chef’s Rationale

The magic of this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni lies in balancing richness and freshness. The heavy cream smooths the acidity of the tomatoes without overpowering them, while the basil provides a sweet, slightly peppery note that lifts the entire dish. Rigatoni’s ridges and tube shape are perfect for holding onto the chunky sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Using diced chicken breast keeps the protein lean and tender, complementing the sauce rather than competing with it.

This dish also offers flexibility and simplicity, making it ideal for busy home cooks who want a satisfying meal without fuss. If you’re looking for a baked variation with similar flavors, try the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta Bake for a comforting twist that’s perfect for gatherings.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

• This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
• Perfect for meal prep, you can portion it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• If freezing, store without fresh basil garnish and add it fresh upon reheating for the best flavor.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding the creamy tomato basil sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle will also work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce calories, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and slightly thinner. Adjust seasoning accordingly to maintain flavor balance.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas to keep it hearty and satisfying. The creamy tomato basil sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of vegetables or plant-based proteins.

How can I add more veggies to this dish?

Stir in fresh spinach, kale, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. This boosts the nutritional value and adds vibrant color and texture.

Desserts to Finish

• Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars – A tangy and sweet finish to cleanse the palate.
• Chocolate Avocado Mousse – Silky, rich, and surprisingly healthy.
• Banana Oat Cookies – Chewy, wholesome, and perfect for a light dessert.
• Classic Tiramisu – An elegant Italian dessert that pairs beautifully with pasta dishes.

The Last Word

Crafting the perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni is all about layering flavors and textures that complement each other effortlessly. This dish embodies comfort food at its finest without being complicated or time-consuming. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your table, making every dinner feel special. With its rich yet fresh sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

Enjoy this dish with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this recipe has you covered with delicious simplicity and satisfying flavor. Happy cooking!

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