Chicken Riggies recipe

Chicken Riggies. Just the name conjures up images of cozy family dinners, laughter around the table, and that unmistakable aroma of simmering tomatoes, peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta. Growing up in Upstate New York, Chicken Riggies wasn’t just a dish; it was a culinary institution. Every family gathering, every potluck, every casual get-together seemed to feature a generous pan of this vibrant, flavorful pasta dish. And let me tell you, there’s a reason for its enduring popularity. It’s hearty, it’s satisfying, and it’s bursting with a depth of flavor that belies its relatively simple ingredients. My own family is absolutely obsessed with Chicken Riggies. It’s the meal requested most often for birthdays, holidays, and those “just because” weeknight dinners when we all crave something comforting and delicious. There’s something truly special about the combination of tender chicken, sweet and spicy peppers, creamy sauce, and perfectly al dente rigatoni. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a taste of home, a warm hug on a plate. If you’re looking for a recipe that will become a family favorite, a dish that’s both impressive and surprisingly easy to make, then you absolutely must try this Chicken Riggies recipe. Prepare to be transported to Upstate New York with every delicious bite!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1-2 banana peppers, sliced (or hot cherry peppers for extra spice – adjust to your preference)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Spotlight and Substitutions:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the standard choice for Chicken Riggies due to their lean protein and ease of cooking. However, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful result. If using chicken thighs, you may need to slightly increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender. For a vegetarian option, consider substituting the chicken with Italian sausage-style plant-based crumbles or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits, but regular olive oil or another neutral cooking oil like canola or vegetable oil can also be used.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables form the flavor base of the sauce. Yellow or white onions work best. Fresh garlic is highly recommended, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) instead.
• Bell Peppers: A combination of red and green bell peppers provides sweetness and color to the dish. You can also include orange or yellow bell peppers for even more variety. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can substitute some of the bell peppers with poblano peppers or Anaheim peppers.
• Banana Peppers (or Hot Cherry Peppers): Banana peppers are a classic component of Chicken Riggies, providing a mild, slightly tangy heat. For a spicier version, hot cherry peppers are the traditional choice and deliver a significant kick. Start with 1-2 hot cherry peppers and adjust to your spice preference. Pickled hot cherry peppers are often used and contribute a vinegary tang as well as heat. If you don’t like spice at all, you can omit the banana or hot peppers entirely, but they are a key element of the authentic flavor profile.
• Canned Tomatoes: A combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes creates a rich and complex tomato base for the sauce. Using high-quality canned tomatoes will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use all crushed tomatoes or blend the diced tomatoes before adding them.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and depth of flavor to the sauce. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute if you are making a vegetarian version.
• Dried Herbs (Oregano and Basil): Dried oregano and basil are classic Italian herbs that complement the tomato-based sauce. Fresh oregano and basil can also be used – use about 1 tablespoon of each, added towards the end of the cooking process.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. These are optional, especially if you are using hot cherry peppers. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit them if you prefer a milder dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
• Rigatoni Pasta: Rigatoni is the traditional pasta shape for Chicken Riggies. Its ridges and wide tubes are perfect for capturing the flavorful sauce. However, you can also use other similar pasta shapes like penne, ziti, or cavatappi.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. Half-and-half provides a lighter option while still adding creaminess. For a dairy-free option, you can use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, but these will slightly alter the flavor profile.
• Pecorino Romano Cheese: Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty Italian cheese made from sheep’s milk. It adds a sharp, savory flavor to the dish. Parmesan cheese can be used as a substitute, although Pecorino Romano is more traditional and offers a slightly different flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley is used as a garnish for a touch of freshness and color. Fresh basil or oregano can also be used as garnishes.

Instructions

1. Season and Brown the Chicken: Season the cubed chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the dish and creates those delicious browned bits at the bottom of the pan, which will deglaze and enrich the sauce. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Don’t worry about fully cooking the chicken at this stage as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Peppers: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced banana peppers (or hot cherry peppers, if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Sautéing the onions and garlic first builds a flavorful base for the sauce. The peppers are added at this stage to soften slightly and release their flavors.
3. Build the Tomato Sauce: Add the chopped red and green bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), and chicken broth. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and deepen, creating a richer and more complex sauce. The longer you simmer, the more flavorful the sauce will become.
4. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the rigatoni pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Cook the pasta while the sauce simmers to time everything perfectly. Al dente pasta is key for Chicken Riggies; it should have a slight bite to it and not be mushy.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: After the sauce has simmered, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. Adding the chicken back into the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors and stay moist.
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Adding the cream and cheese at the end creates the signature creamy and cheesy sauce that is characteristic of Chicken Riggies. Stir constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly and doesn’t clump.
7. Combine with Pasta and Serve: Add the cooked and drained rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Ensure all the pasta is well coated with the flavorful sauce.
8. Serve Immediately: Serve Chicken Riggies immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Pecorino Romano cheese, if desired. Chicken Riggies is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve in bowls and allow everyone to add extra cheese and parsley to their liking.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per Serving (estimated, per serving of 8, without extra cheese garnish): Approximately 550-650 calories (This can vary depending on portion size, specific ingredients used, and fat content of chicken and cream).

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (estimated, per serving of 8):

• Calories: 550-650
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Saturated Fat: 10-15g
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg
• Sodium: 700-900mg (varies greatly based on broth and canned tomato products)
• Carbohydrates: 60-70g
• Fiber: 5-7g
• Sugar: 10-15g

Please Note: These nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods. For the most accurate nutritional information, it is always best to calculate using specific brands and ingredients and utilize a nutrition calculator. Factors that can significantly impact nutritional values include the type of chicken (breast vs. thigh), the amount of olive oil used, the fat content of the cream or half-and-half, and the specific brands of canned tomatoes and chicken broth.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Riggies

Chicken Riggies is a complete meal in itself, but here are some delicious ways to serve it and create a satisfying and balanced dining experience:

• Classic Italian-American Style:
  • Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. Garlic bread is a quintessential accompaniment to Italian-American pasta dishes.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Riggies. A Caesar salad or an Italian chopped salad would also be excellent choices.
  • Antipasto Platter: Start with an antipasto platter featuring cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables for a truly Italian-American feast.
• Family Style Dinner:
  • Large Serving Bowl: Serve Chicken Riggies family-style in a large, attractive serving bowl placed in the center of the table. This encourages sharing and creates a convivial atmosphere.
  • Breadsticks: Offer breadsticks alongside for a lighter bread option.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a healthy vegetable component.
• Elevated Presentation:
  • Individual Bowls: Serve Chicken Riggies in individual pasta bowls for a more refined presentation.
  • Gourmet Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for visual appeal.
  • Wine Pairing: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Montepulciano, or a Pinot Noir to complement the flavors of the dish.
• Potluck or Buffet Style:
  • Chafing Dish: Keep Chicken Riggies warm in a chafing dish for potlucks or buffet-style gatherings.
  • Serving Utensils: Provide a large serving spoon and tongs for easy serving.
  • Toppings Station: Set up a toppings station with extra grated cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley for guests to customize their portions.
• Leftovers (Enjoy the Next Day!):
  • Reheat for Lunch: Chicken Riggies leftovers are often even more flavorful the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  • Pasta Bake Transformation: Transform leftover Chicken Riggies into a baked pasta dish by topping it with extra cheese and breadcrumbs and baking until bubbly and golden brown.

Additional Tips for Delicious Chicken Riggies

Here are five helpful tips to ensure your Chicken Riggies are absolutely perfect every time:

1. Don’t Skimp on the Simmer Time: Patience is key when making Chicken Riggies. Allowing the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes, and ideally up to an hour, makes a world of difference in the depth of flavor. Simmering allows the tomatoes to break down, the peppers to soften, and the herbs and spices to fully infuse the sauce. This slow simmering process is what elevates Chicken Riggies from a simple pasta dish to a truly flavorful and comforting meal.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning Frequently: Seasoning is crucial for any dish, and Chicken Riggies is no exception. Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to your preference. Everyone’s taste buds are different, and the acidity of canned tomatoes can vary, so tasting and adjusting ensures the sauce is perfectly balanced and flavorful to your liking.
3. Use Quality Canned Tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes directly impacts the flavor of your sauce. Opt for good quality, preferably Italian San Marzano tomatoes, for the best flavor. DOP San Marzano tomatoes are considered the gold standard for tomato sauces. Using high-quality tomatoes will result in a sweeter, less acidic, and more flavorful sauce.
4. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is essential for Chicken Riggies. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and lose its texture when combined with the sauce. Follow the package directions for cooking time and check for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time. The pasta should be firm to the bite, not soft or soggy. Remember, the pasta will continue to absorb some sauce and soften slightly once combined.
5. Spice it Up (or Tone it Down) to Your Liking: Chicken Riggies can be customized to your preferred spice level. If you like it spicy, use hot cherry peppers (pickled or fresh), add extra red pepper flakes, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder dish, use banana peppers and omit the red pepper flakes entirely. You can also control the heat by adjusting the number of hot peppers used. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.

FAQ Section: Your Chicken Riggies Questions Answered

Q1: Can I make Chicken Riggies ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Riggies sauce ahead of time. The sauce can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, the sauce often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop and cook the pasta fresh. Combine the reheated sauce with the freshly cooked pasta just before serving. It is generally recommended to cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

Q2: Can I freeze Chicken Riggies?

A: Yes, you can freeze Chicken Riggies, although the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the sauce and pasta separately. Allow the cooked sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Cook the pasta al dente, drain well, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Freeze the pasta in a separate freezer-safe container or bag. To thaw, thaw the sauce and pasta in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the sauce on the stovetop and gently reheat the pasta in boiling water or by tossing it with the reheated sauce until warmed through. Frozen Chicken Riggies is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal quality.

Q3: Can I make Chicken Riggies in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

A: Yes, Chicken Riggies can be adapted for both slow cookers and Instant Pots for a hands-off cooking approach.

• Slow Cooker: Brown the chicken and sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers in a skillet as directed in the recipe. Transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining sauce ingredients (except cream and cheese). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cook pasta separately and combine before serving.
• Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers. Add the remaining sauce ingredients (except cream and cheese) and rigatoni pasta (break pasta in half to fit). Add chicken broth to ensure there is enough liquid to cook the pasta (about 1 cup, adjust as needed to cover pasta). Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then a quick release. Stir in cream and cheese.

Both methods offer convenience, but the stovetop method allows for more control over browning and sauce consistency.

Q4: What if I don’t have Pecorino Romano cheese? Can I use Parmesan?

A: Yes, Parmesan cheese is a perfectly acceptable substitute for Pecorino Romano cheese in Chicken Riggies. While Pecorino Romano is more traditional and offers a sharper, saltier flavor, Parmesan cheese will still provide a delicious cheesy element to the dish. If using Parmesan, you might want to add a pinch more salt to compensate for the slightly less salty flavor of Parmesan compared to Pecorino Romano. Grana Padano cheese is another good alternative that is similar to Parmesan.

Q5: Can I make Chicken Riggies vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, Chicken Riggies can be easily adapted to be vegetarian or vegan:

• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with Italian sausage-style plant-based crumbles, roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant, or a combination of both. Follow the recipe instructions, replacing the chicken with your chosen vegetarian substitutes. Ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly (some Parmesan is not).
• Vegan: Follow the vegetarian substitutions above. Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for richness. Omit the cheese entirely or use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative. Ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy a delicious and hearty vegetarian or vegan version of classic Chicken Riggies!

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