Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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When dinner needs to be comforting, crave-worthy, and just a little bold, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce checks every box. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken tossed with tender rigatoni pasta and smothered in a creamy, garlicky mozzarella cheese sauce makes this one of those dishes you dream about long after the last bite.

The contrast between the zesty Cajun heat and the smooth, rich sauce creates an irresistible balance. This pasta is ideal for cozy weeknight meals or serving up to guests when you want to make a big impression with a little effort. Every bite is packed with flavor and feels indulgent, yet it’s so easy to pull together.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

This dish blends the bold warmth of Cajun spices with the creamy elegance of Italian-style pasta. You get a hit of garlic and heat, but it’s mellowed by the buttery, cheesy sauce. It’s a complete meal in one pan, feeds the whole family, and reheats beautifully the next day.

With minimal prep and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge, it’s an easy recipe to keep in regular rotation. The rich sauce and seasoned chicken make it feel gourmet, without needing hours in the kitchen.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is a natural choice because its ridges catch all that luscious mozzarella sauce, giving each bite layers of flavor. But you could also use penne, ziti, or even fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand. Just avoid thin pastas like angel hair, which don’t hold up as well to the creamy sauce and hearty chicken.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

To create a dish that’s both rich and spicy, every ingredient needs to bring something bold to the table. This recipe uses a combination of pantry staples and fresh items that come together in a smooth, savory sauce with tender pasta and juicy chicken.

• Rigatoni pasta: Its ridges trap the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfyingly flavorful.
• Chicken breasts: Lean, protein-rich, and a perfect canvas for Cajun seasoning.
• Cajun seasoning: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick that gives this dish its signature flavor.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and enhancing the Cajun crust.
• Butter: Starts the base of the sauce and adds a smooth, silky texture.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings that irresistible savory punch to the sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce into a luscious coating.
• Milk: Balances the richness of the sauce and helps it bind.
• Heavy cream: Adds body and richness to the garlic mozzarella sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that stretchy, creamy finish.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in every other flavor.
• Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness right before serving.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk to form a roux. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Lower the heat and add shredded mozzarella. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it over the pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

This recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is! It’s incredibly filling, thanks to the creamy cheese sauce and pasta, and the bold Cajun chicken keeps it exciting from the first forkful to the last.

If you’re planning for leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. It also microwaves well, but make sure to stir halfway through so the cheese melts evenly.

This pasta doesn’t freeze particularly well due to the dairy content, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

A golden, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra mozzarella sauce on your plate.

Simple Side Salad

A green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness and balances the heat of the Cajun seasoning.

Steamed Broccoli

Add a veggie side with minimal effort. Broccoli’s mild flavor is a nice contrast to the spicy, creamy rigatoni.

Roasted Asparagus

Earthy and crisp, roasted asparagus brings both texture and nutrition to your plate.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet and buttery corn adds a summery twist and pairs surprisingly well with Cajun spices.

Fried Okra

Leaning into Southern roots, crispy okra adds crunch and character to this meal.

Coleslaw

A cool, creamy slaw helps balance the spice and gives the meal a backyard BBQ vibe.

Sweet Tea or Lemonade

For a true Southern comfort meal, pair this dish with a tall glass of something refreshing and cold.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy Cajun rigatoni, you’ll definitely want to try some of our other pasta comfort foods next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe is ultra-satisfying and perfect for cozy nights.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta keeps dinner simple with bold flavor.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta brings a hearty twist to a classic Alfredo.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce has that melty, meaty goodness we all crave.
• One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is smoky, savory, and ideal for weeknight dinners.

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

Let me know how yours turned out. Did you amp up the spice? Try a different cheese? Maybe even swap the chicken for shrimp?

I love seeing how everyone adds their own twist, and I’m here to answer questions or offer tips.

Explore more rich, comforting pasta dinners and health-boosting drinks on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your new favorite weeknight go-to!

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