Spicy Chicken Riggies: Upstate NY’s Creamy, Fiery Pasta Icon

Introduction

Spicy Chicken Riggies is the ultimate comfort food born in the heart of Central New York. Creamy, cheesy, and with a fiery kick, this pasta dish blends tender chicken, rigatoni, and a spicy tomato cream sauce for bold flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a heat-seeker or pasta lover, this recipe brings restaurant-quality riggies to your home kitchen.

Looking for other creamy pasta favorites? Try this Cajun Fettuccine Alfredo with a Southern twist.

The Origin of Spicy Chicken Riggies in Upstate NY

Hailing from Utica, New York, Chicken Riggies gained popularity in the 1980s thanks to local Italian-American chefs. The bold combo of cherry peppers, tomato, and cream became an instant hit. It now represents the culinary pride of Central NY, right up there with New York-style pizza.

Craving more regional Italian-American pasta? Check out this classic Italian Lasagna Al Forno from Fabilous Taste.

What You Need for This Spicy Chicken Riggies Recipe

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup hot cherry peppers, sliced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt & pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional:

• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• Mozzarella/provolone cheese
• Extra hot sauce
• Mushrooms or green peppers

Want a side idea? Serve it with this easy coleslaw with ranch dressing for contrast.

How to Make Spicy Chicken Riggies Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Set aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until soft. Add cherry peppers and red pepper flakes.

4. Deglaze & Simmer

Optional: Deglaze with white wine. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Make It Creamy

Return chicken to pan. Stir in cream and cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Combine Pasta

Add pasta to the sauce, toss to coat, and heat through for 2–3 minutes.

7. Garnish & Serve

Top with parsley, more cheese, or a splash of chili oil for extra fire.

Tools for Cooking This Creamy Chicken Riggies Pasta

• Large pot
• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board & knife
• Measuring spoons
• Cheese grater

Spicy Chicken Riggies Recipe Variations & Customizations

• Mild Riggies: Use banana peppers and omit red pepper flakes
• Veggie Riggies: Add mushrooms or spinach
• Protein Swap: Try shrimp, sausage, or tofu
• Cheesy Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and broil

If you like bold pasta bakes, try this creamy chicken tortellini.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat: Microwave or stovetop with a splash of cream
• Freezer: Up to 2 months in portions; thaw before reheating

Optional Serving Ideas

• Garlic bread or rustic Italian loaf
• Side salad with vinaigrette
• Dry red wine: Chianti, Zinfandel, or Barbera
• Drizzle of hot sauce or chili oil

Nutrition Info (per serving, serves 6)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 52g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg

FAQ

Q: Can I make Chicken Riggies less spicy?
A: Yes! Use mild cherry peppers and reduce or skip the flakes.

Q: Pasta substitutes for rigatoni?
A: Penne or ziti, but rigatoni holds the sauce best.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken?
A: Absolutely—just shred and warm in the sauce.

Q: How to make it dairy-free?
A: Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: It can be—just use gluten-free pasta and check labels.

Q: Wine pairing?
A: Try a bold red like Zinfandel or Chianti.

Notes

• Adjust spice levels by changing the type or amount of cherry peppers
• Simmer tomato sauce before adding cream to prevent curdling
• Don’t skip the parsley—it brightens the dish
• Want even more comfort? Pair with a sweet cornbread side

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Riggies is a bold, hearty, and deeply comforting dish that showcases the best of Upstate New York's Italian-American fusion. Creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough, it’s a guaranteed hit for weeknights or special gatherings.

Want more pasta-packed inspiration? Browse light pasta dishes that won’t sacrifice flavor!