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Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni

This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Rigatoni is rich, vibrant, and ultra comforting! Tender chicken and al dente rigatoni smothered in a luscious tomato basil cream sauce.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breast diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic minced
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes undrained, canned
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Use fresh chopped basil instead of dried for brighter flavor.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently adding cream or water if needed.