Flavors Worth Savoring
Why Chicken Riggies Deserve a Spot on Your Dinner Table
Chicken Riggies is a flavorful Italian-American dish hailing from Utica, New York. Known for its rich, creamy tomato sauce with a spicy kick, tender chicken, and hearty rigatoni pasta, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that’s packed with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Recipe Overview
| Serving Size | 4-6 servings |
|---|---|
| Dish Type | Main course |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Calories | Approx. 550 kcal per serving |
Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Riggies
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup cherry peppers (seeded and sliced)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
Special Ingredient Highlight: Cherry Peppers
Cherry peppers are the key to the unique spicy flavor of Chicken Riggies. Their tangy heat adds depth to the creamy sauce without overpowering the dish. Adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Cook the Rigatoni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the bell peppers and cherry peppers, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
- Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir to combine.
4. Build the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, deglazing the pan.
- Add the marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, simmering for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the Chicken Riggies to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness.
Tips for Success
- Adjust Spice Levels: Start with fewer cherry peppers and red pepper flakes, then add more to taste.
- Creamier Sauce: For an extra luscious sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving.
- Add Depth: A splash of dry white cooking wine can add complexity to the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
Chicken Riggies combines the richness of a cream-based tomato sauce with the hearty bite of rigatoni pasta. The cherry peppers and red pepper flakes provide a spicy kick that elevates the dish, making it a perfect blend of comfort and excitement on the palate.
Health Benefits
This dish offers a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. By using boneless, skinless chicken and adjusting the cream quantity, you can tailor it to suit your dietary needs.
Key Takeaways
- Balanced Flavors: A perfect mix of creamy, spicy, and savory.
- Versatile: Easily customize the spice level or add veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Crowd Favorite: Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
FAQ
What are chicken riggies?
Chicken riggies are a dish from Utica, New York. They have tender chicken, rigatoni pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce. The sauce has a spicy kick.
What is the history of chicken riggies?
Chicken riggies started at the Chesterfield Restaurant in Utica. But, we don’t know who made them first. Over time, the dish got spicier and more varied.
Why have chicken riggies become a regional sensation?
People love chicken riggies for their mix of flavors and textures. They’re a comfort food in Utica. Events like Riggie Wars show how much the community loves them.
What are the key ingredients in chicken riggies?
You need rigatoni pasta, chicken breast, olive oil, garlic, and roasted red peppers. Hot cherry peppers, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese are also key. The sweet and hot peppers give it a unique taste.
What tools and equipment are needed to make chicken riggies?
You’ll need a big pot for pasta, a skillet or Dutch oven for the chicken and sauce, and a knife for chopping. A cheese grater, measuring cups, and spoons are also important.
How do you make chicken riggies step-by-step?
First, cook the rigatoni pasta. Then, prepare the chicken with seasonings. Sauté peppers and onions next. Finally, make a creamy tomato sauce.Key steps include browning the chicken, mixing it with peppers and tomatoes, adding cream and cheese. Toss everything with the cooked pasta.
How do you make the perfect chicken riggies sauce?
The sauce is made with crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and cheese. Start by sautéing garlic. Add tomatoes and sherry, then simmer with butter and basil.Finally, add heavy cream and cheese for a rich sauce.
How can you adjust the spice level in chicken riggies?
Adjust the spice by changing the amount of hot cherry peppers and red pepper flakes. For less heat, use fewer peppers or sweeter ones. Taste and adjust as you go.
What sides pair well with chicken riggies?
Try Utica greens, an Italian green salad, and garlic rolls. For drinks, a red or white wine can balance the spiciness.
How do you store and reheat leftover chicken riggies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat with a splash of cream or marinara sauce to keep it moist.
What are some variations of chicken riggies?
You can use Italian sausage or shrimp instead of chicken. Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Try fresh mozzarella for a cheesier version. Or bake the pasta in a casserole.
