What can I use to enhance the flavor of the chicken?

Season well, sear before baking, and add herbs or citrus for brightness.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes work well.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Stuffed Chicken Spinach Rigatoni adapts very well to a gluten-free version. Simply swap the regular rigatoni for a certified gluten-free alternative and double-check that your cream, cheese, and seasonings are clearly labeled gluten-free. The flavor and texture remain just as creamy and satisfying.

Can I substitute the cream cheese filling?

Absolutely. Stuffed Chicken Spinach Rigatoni works beautifully with other creamy fillings. Ricotta adds a lighter, fluffier texture, while mascarpone creates a richer, silkier finish without overpowering the dish.

Stuffed Chicken Spinach Rigatoni – 7 Irresistible Reasons This Creamy Dinner Feels Like Home

Description

Stuffed Chicken Spinach Rigatoni is a creamy, comforting dinner featuring juicy stuffed chicken breasts served with rich spinach-coated rigatoni pasta.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning

For the Spinach Rigatoni

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Make the Creamy Spinach Filling

Mix cream cheese, chopped spinach, garlic, and cheese until smooth and well combined.

3. Stuff and Cook the Chicken

Fill each chicken breast with the spinach mixture. Sear in olive oil over medium heat until golden, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes.

4. Cook the Rigatoni

Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

5. Make the Creamy Spinach Sauce

Melt butter with olive oil, add cream, Parmesan, and spinach. Stir until creamy. Add pasta water as needed for consistency.

6. Combine and Serve

Toss rigatoni in the sauce. Slice stuffed chicken and serve on top or alongside.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking + Stovetop
Cuisine: American-Italian