Spicy Chicken Rigatoni from Buca di Beppo features tender rigatoni pasta tossed with spicy marinated chicken, zesty tomato sauce, and a blend of Italian herbs, topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil, delivering a flavorful and satisfying Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (optional, if melting cheese under broiler)
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 (28 oz/800g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (110g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil leaves
- Salt
- Black pepper
Ensure the chicken breast is evenly cut into bite-sized pieces to allow for thorough marination and consistent cooking with the crushed red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning. Use crushed tomatoes with a thick texture to achieve the rich and zesty tomato sauce signature to the dish. Fresh garlic is essential for authentic flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the Italian herbs and creamy dairy elements. Fresh basil leaves added at the end enhance aroma and taste, while the combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses offers the ideal balance of savory sharpness and gooey meltiness. You can recreate the bold, spicy flavors of the Spicy Chicken Rigatoni from Buca di Beppo with this copycat menu recipe that emphasizes fresh ingredients and balanced seasoning.
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, marinate chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated chicken to skillet; cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add heavy cream; stir to combine.
- Return cooked chicken to skillet and simmer in sauce for 3-5 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese; stir to melt.
- Add cooked rigatoni to skillet; toss everything together to coat pasta evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
- (Optional) Transfer to a baking dish and broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Substitution
Spicy Chicken Rigatoni from Buca di Beppo copycat recipe calls for rigatoni pasta and boneless, skinless chicken breast marinated with crushed red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning to achieve that signature bold flavor. If heavy cream is unavailable, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter to maintain creaminess. When fresh basil is not accessible, dried basil can be used, but add it early in the cooking process to release its aroma effectively. For melting mozzarella, a baking dish under the broiler provides an even melt, but a covered skillet can also work for convenience. You can adjust the level of spiciness by moderating the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Tips
Ensure to salt the pasta water generously to enhance the rigatoni's flavor during boiling. When marinating the chicken, thoroughly coat each piece with spices and oil for consistent flavor and tenderness. Avoid overcooking the chicken in the skillet to keep it juicy; remove it as soon as it's browned and cooked through. For best texture, mix the rigatoni with the sauce immediately after draining, so the pasta absorbs the tomato cream sauce evenly.
Nutritions
Spicy Chicken Rigatoni from Buca di Beppo provides a balanced mix of protein from chicken breast and carbohydrates from rigatoni pasta, making it a hearty meal. The dish contains healthy fats from olive oil and heavy cream, while crushed tomatoes add important vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants. Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses contribute calcium and additional protein, supporting bone health. Your meal delivers essential nutrients and flavorful components to satisfy both taste and dietary needs.
Storage
Store leftover Spicy Chicken Rigatoni in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and inhibit bacterial growth. Consume refrigerated portions within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet or microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap rigatoni with penne or rigatoni for a different pasta texture while maintaining the dish's heartiness. Replace boneless chicken breast with boneless chicken thighs to add juiciness and deeper flavor to your spicy Italian sauce. Use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed to introduce a chunkier sauce consistency. Experiment by incorporating a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of white wine in the sauce to enhance the complexity and heat of the dish.
Allergies
Spicy Chicken Rigatoni from Buca di Beppo may pose allergy risks due to its dairy components like heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese, which can trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The dish also contains gluten from the rigatoni pasta, making it unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. If you have allergies to dairy or wheat, it's important to avoid this meal or seek modified versions to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Spicy Chicken Rigatoni from Buca di Beppo is loved for its bold, zesty flavors combined with tender chicken and perfectly al dente rigatoni pasta. The creamy, spicy tomato sauce delivers a satisfying kick that excites the palate and keeps diners coming back for more. You can recreate this dish at home to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal that balances rich spices and comforting textures, making it a culinary delight worth mastering. Crafting your own copycat version allows you to customize the heat level and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.