Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

This copycat recipe for Buca di Beppo's spicy chicken rigatoni is just to die for! With tender pasta and a luscious, creamy sauce, it's heaven on a plate.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless

    skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

    for cooking

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic

    minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
    adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

    optional, for thinning the sauce if needed

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

    for tossing

  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • Fresh parsley

    chopped

  • Additional Parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 2 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Season the chicken strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  3. 3

    In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Stir in the heavy cream, marinara sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring, for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add ½ cup of chicken broth.

  5. 5

    Add the frozen peas to the sauce and stir for 2–3 minutes until they are heated through. Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.

  6. 6

    Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and the peas are evenly distributed.

  7. 7

    Divide the spicy chicken rigatoni among serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve and enjoy!

Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

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About this Recipe

Craving that irresistible, rich, and spicy pasta dish from your favorite Italian restaurant? This Spicy Chicken Rigatoni copycat recipe brings the beloved Buca di Beppo experience right into your kitchen! Get ready for tender rigatoni and succulent chicken strips enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce that's truly heavenly.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this rigatoni lies in its perfectly balanced, creamy and spicy sauce. We start with a foundation of sautéed garlic and butter, then build layers of flavor with rich heavy cream, tangy marinara sauce, and savory grated Parmesan cheese. The secret to its signature warmth comes from a generous dose of crushed red pepper flakes and a hint of smoked paprika, creating a dish that's both comforting and exciting.

What to Expect

Prepare for a hearty, deeply satisfying meal. Each bite delivers al dente rigatoni coated in a smooth, velvety sauce that clings beautifully, complemented by tender strips of chicken. You'll taste the rich dairy, the bright notes of tomato from the marinara, and a warming heat from the spices that builds without overwhelming. The addition of vibrant frozen peas adds a welcome pop of color and a subtle sweetness, while fresh parsley brightens the finish. This dish promises a restaurant-quality flavor profile that's surprisingly approachable to make at home.

Customization & Variations

Tailor the heat to your preference by adjusting the amount of crushed red pepper flakes—add more for an extra kick or less for a milder warmth. If you find your sauce is thicker than you'd like, you can easily thin it out with a splash of the optional chicken broth. For an extra cheesy touch, don't hesitate to add more grated Parmesan cheese when serving. A different tubular pasta could substitute for rigatoni, though rigatoni's ridges are ideal for holding the creamy sauce.

Serving & Context

This Spicy Chicken Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or for impressing guests at your next gathering. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, for a truly decadent and memorable meal.

Frequently Asked Questions