We’ve always been fans of Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni, that hearty Italian-American classic blending tender chicken, fresh broccoli and al dente rigatoni in a savory sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings restaurant vibes right to your kitchen, making weeknight dinners feel special.
Originating from the beloved Bertucci’s chain, this dish captures the essence of simple yet flavorful Italian cooking we crave. Whether you’re recreating a favorite memory or trying it for the first time, our take on this recipe promises an easy win that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
In our take on the classic Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that deliver authentic Italian-American flavors. This combination ensures a creamy, savory dish with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente rigatoni that brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen.
To prepare this comforting meal, gather the following ingredients in the order we use them—from proteins and vegetables to pasta and seasonings. We’ve noted prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and a tender texture.
- Broccoli: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, trimmed and washed to maintain their bright green color and crispness when sautéed.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, used as the base for searing to add a rich, fruity depth.
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced to release aromatic flavors that form the foundation of the sauce.
- Pasta: 1 pound rigatoni pasta, chosen for its sturdy shape that holds the sauce perfectly.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup heavy cream, which creates a velvety sauce when heated gently.
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for a sharp, nutty finish that enhances the dish’s creaminess.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste, plus optional ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
For optimal results, we suggest using fresh, high-quality items like organic broccoli and free-range chicken to elevate the flavors in your Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni recipe.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni with the ingredients we’ve gathered, we rely on a few key tools that ensure efficient and safe cooking. These items help us achieve that perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy sauce without complications.
Here’s a bulleted list of the essential equipment, organized by preparation stage for easy reference:
- Large Stock Pot: For boiling the rigatoni pasta to al dente perfection; choose one with a capacity of at least 8 quarts to handle ample water and prevent overflow.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 12-inch non-stick or stainless-steel option for searing the chicken breasts and sautéing the broccoli florets, allowing even heat distribution for that golden-brown sear.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy wooden or plastic board paired with a sharp 8-inch knife for precisely dicing chicken and chopping broccoli into uniform florets, ensuring consistent cooking times.
- Colander: Essential for draining the cooked rigatoni without losing any flavorful pasta water; opt for a medium-sized one with fine mesh to catch smaller pieces.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set for accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and seasonings, promoting the authentic Italian-American flavors we aim for in this dish.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce and mixing components in the skillet, as it won’t scratch non-stick surfaces and helps incorporate the heavy cream and Parmesan seamlessly.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the process and focus on creating a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through the straightforward steps to prepare our flavorful Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we prepare the components for seamless cooking. Start by rinsing 1 pound of fresh broccoli florets under cold water and cutting them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Next, slice 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch strips and season them lightly with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper for enhanced flavor. Mince 4 cloves of garlic finely to release their aromatic essence and measure out 12 ounces of rigatoni pasta, 1 cup of heavy cream, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese using our accurate measuring tools. This preparation sets the stage for a creamy savory dish that captures authentic Italian-American tastes.
Cook the Chicken
We begin by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned chicken strips and sear them for 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe juicy results. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest ensuring it remains tender and flavorful for our final assembly.
Cook the Broccoli and Rigatoni
In a large stock pot, we bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil then add the rigatoni pasta and cook it according to package instructions for about 10-12 minutes until al dente with a slight bite. While the pasta boils, use the same skillet with any remaining chicken juices and add the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli turns vibrant green and crisp-tender while the garlic infuses a fragrant savory aroma. Drain the pasta in a colander to remove excess water before combining.
Assemble the Dish
We now combine everything in the skillet over medium heat by pouring in the heavy cream and stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture forms a smooth creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon. Add the cooked chicken and drained rigatoni to the skillet along with the sautéed broccoli and toss gently for 2-3 minutes until all ingredients are evenly coated and heated through. This step blends the tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente pasta into a cohesive comforting meal ready to serve immediately.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni even more convenient for busy weeknights, we can prepare components in advance without compromising the dish’s creamy texture and vibrant flavors. This approach allows us to streamline cooking while preserving the tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce that make this Italian-American favorite irresistible.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We recommend starting by prepping the raw ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. This keeps everything fresh and ready for quick assembly:
- Chicken: Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even strips and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Lightly coat with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of salt to prevent drying out.
- Broccoli: Rinse and cut fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to set their bright green color, then immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain thoroughly and store in a sealed bag in the fridge to maintain their crisp-tender crunch.
- Garlic and Other Add-Ins: Mince garlic cloves and measure out seasonings like grated Parmesan cheese and herbs. Place them in small, labeled containers to avoid last-minute prep.
Cooking Components in Advance
For a head start on the full recipe, we can cook certain elements up to 2 days ahead:
- Sear the Chicken: In a skillet, heat extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken strips until golden and fully cooked. Let it cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. This step ensures the chicken retains its juicy, flavorful profile when reheated.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions, but undercook it slightly by 1-2 minutes for the best texture. Drain, toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and store in the fridge in a sealed container.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Sauté minced garlic in olive oil, then mix in heavy cream and grated Parmesan to create a partial sauce. Cool it completely before storing in the refrigerator to lock in its rich, creamy essence.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dish’s authentic Italian-American taste and quality. Here’s how we handle it:
| Component | Storage Method | Recommended Time | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepped Ingredients (e.g., chicken, broccoli) | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 24 hours | Use directly; no reheating needed. |
| Cookedd Components (e.g., seared chicken, pasta, sauce) | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 48 hours | Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or cream to restore moisture and prevent drying. |
| Full Assembled Dish | Covered container in refrigerator | Up to 24 hours | Reheat in a large pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until everything is warmed through and the sauce is silky smooth—aim for 5-7 minutes to preserve flavors. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni remains a quick, restaurant-quality meal that delivers bold, comforting flavors every time. Always reheat gently to avoid overcooking the broccoli, keeping its fresh vibrancy intact for that perfect bite.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni brings cozy Italian-American vibes right to your kitchen. It’s a simple way to create meals that feel special yet effortless.
By trying this recipe you’ll discover the joy of home-cooked favorites that impress family and friends. We’re confident it’ll become a go-to in your routine for its fresh flavors and ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni?
Bertucci’s Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rigatoni pasta tossed in a creamy, savory sauce. It’s a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare at home, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, blending simple ingredients for authentic flavors.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni?
Key ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, rigatoni pasta, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and basic seasonings. Using fresh, organic options enhances the dish’s creamy, savory taste, making it a simple yet flavorful home-cooked meal.
How do I prepare Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni?
Start by searing chicken in olive oil, then boil rigatoni and sauté broccoli with garlic. Combine everything in a skillet with heavy cream and Parmesan for a creamy sauce. The process takes about 30 minutes, making it ideal for beginners and offering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
What equipment is required to make this dish?
You’ll need a large stock pot for pasta, a skillet for cooking chicken and broccoli, a cutting board and chef’s knife for prep, a colander for draining, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring. These tools help streamline the process for efficient home cooking.
Can I make Chicken Broccoli Rigatoni ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like sliced chicken and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance, or cook components such as seared chicken and pasta up to 48 hours ahead. Store in airtight containers in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove to maintain flavors and texture for quick weeknight meals.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water to restore creaminess, or use the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. This keeps the dish tasty and prevents it from drying out.
Is this recipe suitable for families or beginners?
Absolutely, it’s simple and forgiving, making it great for beginners and families. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it delivers comforting, kid-friendly flavors in under 45 minutes, ideal for weeknights without requiring advanced skills.