Grilled Chicken Riggies: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Pasta Classic Made on the Grill

Grilled Chicken Riggies bring together smoky grilled chicken, tender rigatoni, and a creamy, spicy tomato-pepper sauce for a dish that feels comforting yet bold. This version keeps the authentic Utica-style flavor while adding rich depth from the grill. Whether you're craving a hearty weeknight dinner or planning a crowd-pleasing cookout, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with simple, accessible ingredients. Each step is designed to build layers of flavor, making the final dish irresistibly satisfying and perfect for anyone searching for a flavorful grilled pasta recipe.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Riggies Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers (red or orange), sliced
• 1 cup hot cherry peppers, sliced
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, optional

For the Pasta

• 1 pound rigatoni
• Salt for boiling water

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Grill the Chicken

1. Season the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and slice into bite-size pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook rigatoni until al dente.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 3: Make the Riggies Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, bell peppers, and cherry peppers; cook until tender.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and cream.
5. Simmer 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add Parmesan and stir until melted into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add sliced grilled chicken to the sauce.
2. Stir in cooked rigatoni.
3. Add pasta water as needed for smoother consistency.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Tips

This grilled chicken riggies recipe shines when you balance heat, creaminess, and smokiness. Grilling the chicken adds a distinct depth, so aim for good grill marks without overcooking. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens naturally for a silky finish. Cherry peppers add signature heat and tang, but adjust their quantity based on spice preference. Rigatoni works best because its ridges catch the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful and rich.

Variations

Chicken riggies are highly customizable, making them great for tailoring to different tastes or ingredients you already have on hand. Whether you want more heat, added veggies, or a different protein, this dish adapts well to your kitchen style. Try experimenting with these simple twists:

• Swap chicken for grilled shrimp.
• Add mushrooms for extra richness.
• Use vodka instead of broth for a vodka-riggies twist.
• Stir in spinach for color and nutrients.
• Replace cream with mascarpone for ultra-smooth texture.

Best pairings

This pasta pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp flavors that complement its creamy and spicy richness. A light green salad balances the dish, while grilled bread adds a satisfying crunch and soaks up extra sauce. If you're serving wine, go for bright, acidic options to cut through the creaminess. These pairings elevate the dish into a complete, restaurant-quality meal.

• Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Grilled Italian bread
• Roasted zucchini or asparagus
• Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• Italian sparkling water with citrus

Conclusion

Grilled chicken riggies combine smoky grilled chicken, tender pasta, and a creamy-spicy sauce in one unforgettable dish. It's approachable enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe is a satisfying way to bring a touch of Utica comfort food to your grill.

Once you try this version, it may just become your new favorite way to enjoy pasta with a smoky twist. Enjoy every bite.