Authentic Utica-Style Chicken Riggies (Creamy High Protein Pasta Dinner)

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to bring a taste of Central New York right into your kitchen? Today, we’re diving into a beloved regional classic that’s bold, creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—straight from the heart of Utica. This dish has graced family tables, church gatherings, and neighborhood restaurants for generations, earning its place as a true comfort food icon.

Utica-Style Chicken Riggies are known for their tender chicken, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a creamy tomato sauce with just the right amount of heat from cherry peppers. It’s a dish that balances richness and spice beautifully—warming you from the inside out. Traditionally made with simple pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, this meal proves that you don’t need anything fancy to create something unforgettable.

Whether you’re cooking for Sunday dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a high-protein pasta dish that feels indulgent yet satisfying, this authentic version will not disappoint. Let’s get cooking and celebrate a true American-Italian treasure.

Authentic Utica-Style Chicken Riggies Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Riggies Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ cup hot cherry peppers (plus 2 tablespoons of their juice), chopped
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra grated cheese
• A drizzle of olive oil

Print

Authentic Utica-Style Chicken Riggies Step-by-Step Directions

1. Bring the Pasta Water to a Boil
   Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
   While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken pieces dry. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
   Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Peppers
   Stir in the sliced red bell pepper and chopped cherry peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. The aroma at this stage is unmistakable—sweet, spicy, and deeply savory. 🌶️
5. Build the Sauce
   Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   Pour in the heavy cream and cherry pepper juice. Stir gently as the sauce turns into a beautiful rosy color.
6. Bring It All Together
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let everything simmer together for 5 minutes so the chicken absorbs the creamy tomato flavor.
7. Combine with Pasta
   Add the drained rigatoni directly to the skillet. Toss gently to coat each piece. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Finish with Cheese
   Stir in the grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
9. Serve and Enjoy
   Spoon into warm bowls, garnish with parsley and extra cheese, and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed hot, with crusty Italian bread on the side.

Authentic Utica-Style Chicken Riggies Nutritional Information

This high-protein pasta dish delivers a satisfying balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. The lean chicken breast provides excellent protein, while the olive oil and cream add richness and energy. Cherry peppers offer vitamin C and a gentle metabolic boost.

Per serving (approximate, based on 4 servings):

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 45 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~620 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

Protein: 45g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g

This meal is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats wonderfully with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Utica-Style Chicken Riggies are more than just pasta—they’re tradition in a bowl. The creamy tomato sauce, the tender chicken, the gentle kick of cherry peppers… every bite feels like Sunday dinner at Nonna’s house. ❤️

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!