If you’re searching for the perfect comfort food dinner that’s equal parts satisfying, flavorful, and easy to prepare, look no further than Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce. This one-pot dish brings together juicy chicken, tender rigatoni pasta, and a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce that clings to every ridge of pasta. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights, family dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Unlike overly complex recipes that involve multiple pots and prep steps, this recipe is streamlined for maximum flavor with minimal mess. You don’t need to be a professional chef to bring this restaurant-quality dish to your kitchen.
In fact, with a few pantry staples and a quick sauté, you’ll have dinner on the table in under 40 minutes. You can even make your own homemade marinara sauce if you’re craving a fresher twist.
Want to boost your cheese knowledge? Learn about the best Italian cheeses (like Parmesan, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano) over at Cheese.com’s Italian cheese guide — perfect for leveling up your pasta game.
If you enjoy easy weeknight meals with comforting flavors, this is a recipe you’ll want to bookmark. It rivals favorites like our Chicken and Broccoli Pasta or Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta for its creaminess and ease of preparation.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup
- Creamy, cheesy sauce: Comfort food at its best
- Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or make it spicy
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters approve
🍝 What Is Rigatoni — And Why It’s Ideal for Creamy Sauces?
Rigatoni is a tube-shaped pasta with ridges, making it the perfect vessel for hearty sauces like our Parmesan cream sauce. These ridges grab onto the sauce better than smooth pasta shapes.
If you don’t have rigatoni on hand, try these substitutes:
- Penne
- Ziti
- Rotini
- Gnocchi (for a soft, pillowy twist)
This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted broccoli or can stand on its own like a comforting one-pan creamy chicken pasta bake — much like this Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a truly irresistible Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce, you need a blend of fresh, flavorful, and creamy ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need — plus some optional extras to elevate your pasta dish even further.
✅ Main Ingredients
These ingredients form the base of the recipe and are essential for building flavor, texture, and richness.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta Rigatoni’s ridges are ideal for holding onto the creamy Parmesan sauce. You can substitute with penne or ziti.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing the chicken and aromatics, olive oil adds a subtle, fruity depth.
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness and balance to the savory base of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic Garlic infuses the entire dish with an aromatic punch that complements the cheese and chicken.
- 2 cups chicken broth Helps cook the pasta in the pan and builds a flavorful sauce foundation.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Combines with broth to create a tomato base. Use high-quality jarred or make your own for a fresher taste.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese The star of the sauce — salty, nutty, and creamy.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully into the sauce and adds a stretchy, gooey texture.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste Season the chicken and sauce to bring out the best flavors.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
🧄 Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
These ingredients are completely optional, but if you’re looking to add complexity, nutrition, or your own signature twist, here are a few suggestions:
- Crushed red pepper flakes For a spicy kick that enhances the cheesy richness.
- Baby spinach Stir in at the end for color, nutrients, and a subtle earthiness.
- Sautéed mushrooms Earthy and meaty, mushrooms blend perfectly with Parmesan and garlic.
- Chopped sun-dried tomatoes Adds tanginess and depth to the sauce.
- Italian seasoning A pinch of this herb blend can amplify the overall flavor profile.
- Heavy cream or cream cheese (optional swap for mozzarella) If you prefer a smoother or richer sauce, cream-based ingredients work beautifully.
- Breadcrumb topping Sprinkle over the top and broil for 2–3 minutes to create a golden, crispy crust.
🥛 Ingredient Substitutions
Want to make it your own? These simple swaps keep the recipe flexible and inclusive:
- Gluten-free pasta → use a GF rigatoni variety
- Dairy-free cheese → opt for vegan Parmesan and mozzarella
- Vegetarian option → replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu
- Whole wheat pasta → for extra fiber and a nuttier taste
This extensive ingredient list ensures your creamy rigatoni with chicken and Parmesan sauce comes out flavorful, hearty, and unforgettable. Whether you’re keeping it classic or adding your own twist, every ingredient here plays a role in the magic.
👨🍳 How to Make Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Follow these simple steps to create a crowd-pleasing pasta dish in just one skillet.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season and Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides (4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside. - Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add onions and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. - Deglaze and Add Base Ingredients
Add chicken back into the pan. Pour in marinara sauce, broth, and uncooked rigatoni. Stir well and bring to a boil. - Simmer Until Pasta Is Cooked
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until pasta is al dente. - Add the Cheese
Remove lid and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. - Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley, and serve warm.
🔥 Expert Cooking Tips
- Salt your pasta water! It enhances flavor throughout.
- Use freshly shredded cheese – it melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Add a breadcrumb topping and broil for a crispy golden finish.
- Short on time? Use rotisserie chicken for a quick protein boost.
🍴 Customization Ideas
One of the best things about Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is its versatility. You can easily tweak this dish to suit dietary preferences, spice levels, or ingredient availability — all while keeping its creamy, comforting essence intact.
🌶️ Spice It Up
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
- Stir in a spoonful of harissa or hot sauce for a bolder kick.
🥦 Make It Veggie-Friendly
- Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, or tofu.
- Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas for color and nutrients.
🧀 Try Different Cheeses
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a saltier bite.
- Add a touch of cream cheese or ricotta for extra creaminess.
🍝 Use Different Pasta
- Sub rigatoni with penne, fusilli, or cavatappi for a twist on texture.
- For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
🥩 Switch Up the Protein
- Try Italian sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even shrimp for a new flavor profile.
Customizing this dish ensures it never gets boring — and always hits the spot.
🥖 What to Serve with Chicken and Rigatoni
Elevate your meal with delicious sides and beverage pairings:
Sides
- Garlic breadsticks
- Caesar salad or simple garden salad
- Garlic-roasted broccoli
Wine Pairing
According to Wine Folly’s Pasta and Wine Pairing guide, the best wines for a creamy pasta dish are:
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Grigio
- Sauvignon Blanc
🔄 Variations and Substitutes
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- Veggie: Stir in spinach or roasted red peppers.
- Protein: Try shrimp, as in this garlicky shrimp pasta dinner, or swap in rotisserie chicken.
- Crispy: Add slices of crispy baked Parmesan chicken on top for texture and crunch.
🧊 Storing & Reheating Tips
How to Store
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
- To freeze, let cool completely and store in freezer-safe bags or containers (up to 3 months)
How to Reheat
- Oven: 350°F, covered with foil for 20–25 minutes
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water and reheat on low
- Microwave: 30-second increments until hot
🧮 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
Note: This is an estimate and varies by brand.
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 17g
- Sodium: 1400mg
Looking to lighten it up? Use:
- Low-fat cheese
- Whole wheat pasta
- Less oil and sodium
❓ FAQs About Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works great.
What sauces go best with rigatoni?
Rigatoni is ideal for thicker sauces like:
- Parmesan cream sauce
- Marinara
- Vodka sauce
- Cheese sauces
How do I thicken my Parmesan sauce?
- Simmer uncovered to evaporate liquid
- Add more cheese
- Stir in a touch of heavy cream or cream cheese
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use:
- Plant-based butter and cheese
- Unsweetened almond or oat milk
- Vegan parmesan alternatives
Can I double the recipe?
It’s best to cook in two skillets or bake it in a large dish. Boil pasta separately to avoid overcrowding.
What’s a great cheesy side?
Try Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a satisfying, portable option!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: It should be al dente, not mushy.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt smoothly.
- Adding cheese too early: Wait until the end to avoid curdling.
- Undersalting: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning.
- Skipping resting time: Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
💡 Reader-Approved Hacks and Additions
From home cooks who’ve tried this dish, here are some top upgrades:
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for tanginess
- Top with crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch
- Drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet touch
- Swap mozzarella with fontina or asiago
📝 Final Thoughts
Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is everything you want in a hearty pasta dish — creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience.
So go ahead — grab that skillet, turn up the heat, and treat yourself to a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
This Chicken and Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is the kind of recipe that becomes a staple. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor — especially when paired with a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf or a fresh green salad.
Enjoy your next pasta night with this skillet full of comfort — and don’t forget to top it with extra Parmesan.
💬 Tried it? Loved it? Drop a comment or share your own variations.
📌 Pin this recipe so you’ll always have the ultimate pasta night on standby.