Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary flavor explosion! This Spiced Chicken Mezzi Rigatoni is not just a meal; it's a passport to Italian-inspired comfort that will make your taste buds dance with joy. With a perfect balance of creamy tomato sauce, tender spiced chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe promises to become your new go-to dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz mezzi rigatoni
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and measuring out all spices.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create a spice blend.
- Coat the diced chicken thoroughly with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook mezzi rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
- Add diced tomatoes to the skillet with chicken, reducing heat to medium and simmering for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to create a rich, spiced sauce, and let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Drain pasta and add directly to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the spiced chicken and tomato cream sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with additional salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh torn basil leaves.
Tips
- Spice Coating Technique: Ensure your chicken is evenly and thoroughly coated with the spice blend for maximum flavor penetration.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook your mezzi rigatoni just until al dente to maintain the ideal texture that will beautifully hold the creamy sauce.
- Heat Management: Use medium-high heat when searing chicken to achieve a golden-brown exterior without burning the spices.
- Cream Sauce Secret: Add heavy cream gradually and simmer gently to prevent separation and create a smooth, luxurious sauce.
- Fresh Herb Finish: Tear fresh basil leaves just before garnishing to release their maximum aromatic oils and add a bright, fresh note to the dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the optimal blend of textures and temperatures.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
