Creamy Spinach and Cheese Chicken Thighs with Rigatoni

This dish features tender, boneless chicken thighs cooked to perfection in a rich and creamy sauce made with frozen spinach and a blend of Italian cheeses. Served over al dente rigatoni, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a comforting yet sophisticated meal. The addition of spices like nutmeg and cayenne adds a subtle warmth, elevating the traditional creamy pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 boneless and skinless chicken thighs
• 8 oz dry rigatoni
• 2 cups frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup Italian 3 cheese blend (Parmesan, Asiago, Romano)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp canola oil
• 2 tbsp flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat canola oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Season the chicken thighs with garlic salt, kosher salt, black pepper, white pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour over the remaining oil and butter. Stir to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Gradually whisk in the heavy whipping cream, sour cream, and milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Add the thawed spinach to the sauce, followed by the Italian cheese blend. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy spinach sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve the creamy chicken and spinach over the cooked rigatoni, garnishing with additional cheese if desired.