Easy One Pot Rigatoni with Italian Chicken

When trying to think of a simple dinner for our family during those busy weeknights, a pasta dish is always a good idea. Making the entire dish in one pot? Even better. This family favorite recipe makes me feel so resourceful, but my favorite part is the easy clean up. If you’re looking for new recipes to have in your arsenal, look no further thank this one pot rigatoni with chicken. This can be used for special occasions or for the everyday grind.

Ingredient list for One Pot Rigatoni with Chicken

Here’s a list of the basic ingredients you’ll need. I like to just copy and paste this list into my notes app for the grocery store. That black checkmark emoji is so satisfying when I find what I need.

• Avocado oil
• Onion
• Chicken breasts
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato Paste
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Salt & Black Pepper
• Bell peppers
• Chicken broth
• Rigatoni pasta (I feel like Jock Jams should play after you add the rigatoni.. “WELCOME TO THE MAIN EVENT”)
• Parmesan Cheese
• Heavy cream
• Fresh parsley

Alternatives to Ingredient List

If you’re looking for alternatives whether it’s related to dietary, what you have on hand or budget, here are some options.

You can always substitute olive oil for avocado oil. I personally use avocado oil because it takes longer to burn and having toddlers running around, gives me extra time to handle emergent (aka DON’T COLOR ON THAT!) situations.

I use chicken breasts in this recipe, but you can always use chicken thighs, lean ground beef, sweet Italian sausage or ground turkey. If you do choose to use beef or turkey, be sure to drain the fat/liquid after you cook it. Another easy option is using sweet Italian sausage. It marries with the tomatoes oh so deliciously.

If you’re looking for a quicker way to prepare, you can always use a premade pasta sauce, but I find I usually have the ingredients in my pantry to make from scratch.

Using cream cheese in this dish makes it into a creamy tomato sauce which is always a lovely touch.

If you are looking to double up on some protein, go with a meat sauce for this. Who said you can’t have chicken and beef in the same dish? You do you.

Looking for some heat? To make a spicy rigatoni, be sure to add some chili powder.

You can always swap beef broth for chicken broth, but since I’m sing chicken in the recipe and usually have it on hand, I chose this option.

I sometimes add in peas into this and other times serve it as a side. When my babies are younger, I like to compartmentalize it. You know the stage where they won’t eat something if it’s touching another piece of food. We’re growing out of that phase for now, luckily.

You can always scroll down to the bottom of this post to find the printable recipe card for a more concise overview of this recipe.

Equipment Needed

You’re obviously going to need a large pot. Some use a very large skillet and honestly that works just as well! I’ve done it in both and the end result is still a winner.

Aside from that, grab a utensil to brown your chicken and a wooden spoon once you have added your rigatoni.

• Pot or large skillet
• Tongs
• Large spoon
• Cutting board + knife for prepping
• Plate for chicken 

Directions for One Pot Rigatoni

Start heating some avocado oil over medium-high heat and browning your chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper, Italian seasoning and garlic powder.

Once mostly cooked, set aside chicken on a plate. Next, add your onions and bell peppers and sauté until soft.

Then, add your chicken broth, tomato paste and heavy cream to the pot. Bring that to a boil and then reduce to a strong simmer.

Here’s where you add back your chicken as well as your uncooked rigatoni. Cover your pot and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until your pasta is al dente. Stir in some parmesan and 1/4-1/2 cup parmesan. Garnish with fresh parsley on top and enjoy!

 

What To Serve Alongside Rigatoni With Chicken

This one-pot rigatoni is one of those delicious recipes that doesn’t really require a side, BUT if you are looking for some variety (say, for picky eaters who desire something specific) here are a few options.

1.) Roasted Lemon Broccoli (click here)

2.) Green Beans by Ina Garten (click here)

3.) Brussel Sprouts (click here).

4.) Classic garlic bread (either store bought Texas toast or check out this recipe here)

Frequently Asked Questions

How to store this one-pot meal?

Place the leftovers in an airtight container and place in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to reheat this easy weeknight dinner?

You can always use the microwave and reheat it in increments of 30 seconds, stirring in between each break.

If you are meal prepping this dish, reheat it in the skillet (or pot), be sure to add a splash of milk since the rigatoni has already soaked up all the liquid.

How do you know when your pasta is al dente?

Check out this video. It’s about 12 minutes long, but a very thorough video on how to know when your pasta is al dente. (spoiler alert, she uses more than one pot) 😉

How to Store Fresh Parsley

This quick video is an awesome resource on how to properly store parsley so you can keep it fresh for up to TWO weeks! Plan a few meals with parsley this week.