Ingredients
For the Pasta:
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12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
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1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
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1 tbsp olive oil
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g)
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
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Fresh parsley (chopped)
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Red pepper flakes
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Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tbsp salt and 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add 2 tbsp flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Gradually add the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Add the cooked rigatoni and sliced chicken to the cheese sauce.
- Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve or Bake (Optional)
- For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: Easy Cheesy Chicken Rigatoni Recipe