Step-by-Step: Chicken Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Craving a cozy dinner that’s easy, filling, and absolutely delicious? Try this Chicken Rigatoni with Tomato Sauce—a classic comfort food made simple. Follow these easy steps to bring it to life!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (chopped)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add rigatoni and cook until al dente (firm to the bite), about 10–12 minutes.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper.
• Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until chicken is golden and fully cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
• Pour in the crushed tomatoes.
• Add oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and more salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce.
• Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet.
• Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Plate the pasta and top with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

🍴 Tips for the Best Flavor:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer finish.
• Add a splash of cream to make it a creamy tomato sauce.
• Want to go vegetarian? Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini!

Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits

Macronutrient Breakdown (Protein, Carbs, Fats)

When it comes to chicken rigatoni pasta with tomato sauce, you’re not just getting great taste—you’re also giving your body a balanced meal. Here’s a nutritional snapshot based on one average serving (about 1.5 cups):

Thanks to the lean chicken, you’re getting high-quality protein without excessive fat. Rigatoni pasta provides slow-digesting carbs, especially if you use whole grain. Meanwhile, the tomato sauce brings antioxidants—more on that below.