Hearty Cream Sauce Rigatoni with Grilled Chicken & Herb Potatoes
Description
Hearty Cream Sauce Rigatoni with Grilled Chicken & Herb Potatoes is a rich, comforting, and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender grilled chicken slices and crispy herb-roasted potatoes are served with rigatoni pasta coated in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. This dish combines protein, carbs, and bold flavors in one complete meal that’s filling and restaurant-quality.
Creamy, savory, and slightly herby — it’s ideal for family meals, gatherings, or weekend comfort food.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty Level: Medium
Ingredients
For Grilled Chicken
2 boneless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
For Herb Potatoes
3 medium potatoes (cubed)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
For Rigatoni & Cream Sauce
300 g rigatoni pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ cup pasta water (if needed)
Garnish (Optional)
Fresh parsley
Extra parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Roast the Herb Potatoes
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss cubed potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread on a baking tray.
Roast for 30–35 minutes until golden and crispy.
Grill the Chicken
Rub chicken with olive oil and seasonings.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
Cook the Rigatoni
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
Make the Cream Sauce
Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and simmer 3–4 minutes.
Stir in parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add pasta and mix well. Use pasta water if sauce is too thick.
Assemble & Serve
Plate creamy rigatoni.
Top with grilled chicken slices.
Serve herb potatoes on the side or mix together.
Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or toasted bread.
Add steamed vegetables or salad for balance.
Pair with fresh lemonade or iced tea.
Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving)
Calories: ~720 kcal
Protein: ~42 g
Carbohydrates: ~65 g
Fat: ~34 g
(Approximate values)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another pasta instead of rigatoni?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well with cream sauce.
2. Can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese quantity.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. How to reheat without drying?
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers pair nicely.