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Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce 1

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There’s just something irresistible about the mix of spicy Cajun flavors, tender chicken, and velvety Alfredo sauce wrapping around every bite of pasta. Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce is the kind of comfort food that pulls everyone to the dinner table. It’s a weeknight win, a weekend indulgence, and your next favorite go-to dish.

Picture golden-seared chicken tossed in a smoky garlic butter blend, then coated in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce that clings to every piece of rigatoni. The spices kick up the flavor while the creamy sauce smooths it all out, making every bite layered with bold and comforting notes.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This recipe brings together the bold warmth of Cajun spice and the creamy indulgence of Alfredo pasta in a perfect harmony. It’s easy enough to make on a busy night but tastes like something from a restaurant. The use of garlic butter elevates the flavor, while the pasta shape holds onto every bit of that luscious sauce. If you love a hearty, flavorful dish that pleases the whole family, this one delivers on all fronts.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

Classic dried rigatoni works beautifully here. The ridges help trap that cheesy Alfredo sauce and bits of Cajun-spiced chicken in every forkful. If you can find bronze-cut rigatoni, even better—it holds the sauce more effectively. You can also substitute with penne or ziti if needed, but rigatoni gives this dish that extra comfort-food punch.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is all about bold, creamy, and savory layers. Each ingredient adds something special to the final dish, working together to bring out the heat, richness, and mouthwatering satisfaction of a full-flavored pasta.

  • Rigatoni pasta
  • Chicken breast
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Salted butter
  • Fresh garlic
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Olive oil
  • Salt & black pepper
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)
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Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce 2

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and coat them in Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add salted butter. Toss in freshly minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter. Simmer gently, then add grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth and melted.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir in the cooked rigatoni. Toss everything until evenly coated in the cheesy Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot. For extra Cajun heat, add a pinch more seasoning on top before serving.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This creamy, spicy pasta dish is hearty enough to be served as a standalone meal, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. It comfortably feeds four to five people, especially when paired with a light side. The richness of the Alfredo sauce and the satisfying texture of rigatoni make it a complete and filling dish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave, and the flavor often deepens after a day.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

A crunchy, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra Alfredo sauce.

Simple Green Salad

The freshness of greens with a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Lightly charred and seasoned broccoli adds some earthy crunch to your plate.

Grilled Zucchini

The smoky flavor of grilled zucchini complements the Cajun spices beautifully.

Caesar Salad

With its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, a Caesar salad makes a satisfying side.

Parmesan-Crusted Asparagus

Crispy asparagus with a cheesy crust adds a fancy touch with very little effort.

Buttered Peas

Simple, sweet, and vibrant peas are always welcome alongside a rich pasta dish.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

To cleanse the palate and refresh, especially when enjoying the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning.

Want More Creamy Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, you’re definitely going to enjoy these other rich and satisfying pasta dishes from our kitchen:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with velvety sauce and tender ground beef.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that’s fast and full of flavor.
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a childhood comfort classic with a twist.
• One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with layers of savory depth.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a bold spin on cheesy pasta.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicier or keep it mild? Maybe added mushrooms or extra cheese?

I love hearing how others put their own twist on this creamy Cajun classic. Questions are welcome too, let’s make this dish even better together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comfort food favorites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to flavor explosion: Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

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Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce 1

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce


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  • Author: Mia Park
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy, spicy, and deeply satisfying, this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce blends bold Cajun flavors with rich Italian comfort. A perfect weeknight dinner or indulgent treat.


Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts sliced thinly

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

5 cloves garlic finely minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional

2 tablespoons unsalted butter for Alfredo

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

salt and pepper to taste

pinch of nutmeg optional

12 ounces rigatoni pasta

salt for pasta water

chopped fresh parsley for garnish

red pepper flakes optional

extra Parmesan for garnish


Instructions

1. Coat the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.

2. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear the marinated chicken in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and smoked paprika; sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream. Simmer gently while stirring. Add Parmesan and mozzarella gradually, whisking until melted and smooth.

6. Season sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer on low for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Return cooked chicken to the sauce. Add rigatoni and toss to combine. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes so flavors meld.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning. If too thick, add pasta water or milk to loosen.

9. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.

Notes

Pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Reheats well; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Fusion (Cajun-Italian)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 780
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 47g
  • Saturated Fat: 24g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 165mg

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