Creamy Rigatoni Florentine: A Rich and Comforting Pasta Dish

Quick Benefits

This Creamy Rigatoni Florentine is a hearty, satisfying pasta dish that combines tender sautéed chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich basil-infused tomato sauce. The addition of half-and-half makes the sauce luxuriously creamy, while mozzarella cheese melts into every bite. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping.

Essential Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) package rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless chicken, cubed
• ¼ cup sliced fresh mushrooms (or more to taste)
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (26-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
• 1 pint half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 (10-ounce) package fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon shredded Parmesan cheese (or more to taste)
• 8 leaves fresh basil (or to taste)

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook rigatoni according to package instructions (8-10 minutes until al dente).
• Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add cubed chicken and cook until no longer pink in the center (about 10 minutes).
• Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic:

• In the same skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms until tender (5-10 minutes).
• Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant (1-2 minutes).

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

• Stir in spaghetti sauce, half-and-half, and Italian seasoning.
• Reduce heat to medium and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens (10-15 minutes).

5. Add Chicken and Spinach:

• Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
• Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted (about 5 minutes).

6. Combine Everything:

• Add cooked pasta and mozzarella cheese to the skillet.
• Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Each serving provides 35g of protein, making it a filling meal.
• Rich in Calcium: With 273mg of calcium, this dish supports bone health.
• Loaded with Vitamins: Fresh spinach adds Vitamin C and iron, boosting immunity and energy.
• Balanced Carbs and Fats: Provides sustained energy while being creamy yet not overly heavy.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or arugula salad pairs beautifully.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir.
• For a Lighter Option: Use zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta instead of rigatoni.

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted chickpeas.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in Parmesan and ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
• Mushroom Lovers’ Edition: Double the mushrooms for an earthier flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of half-and-half and dairy-free cheese.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to retain creaminess.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Pasta if Available: It enhances the texture and absorbs the sauce better.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up best in creamy sauces.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Simmering helps deepen flavors and achieve the perfect consistency.
• Tear Basil Instead of Chopping: This prevents bruising and keeps the flavor fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?

Yes! Heavy cream will make the sauce even richer and creamier.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply swap rigatoni for gluten-free pasta.

Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes would all be great additions.

This Creamy Rigatoni Florentine is a rich, flavorful, and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With savory chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy tomato sauce, it’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

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