Description
This Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is rich, bold, and comforting — perfectly balancing Cajun spice with velvety mozzarella Alfredo sauce. It’s a one-skillet dinner that brings restaurant-worthy flavor right to your table.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
12 ounces rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Sear the chicken breasts for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden. Remove and let rest.
3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
4. In the same skillet used for chicken, lower heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
6. Add shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth and thick. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.
7. Slice the rested chicken into strips.
8. Add the cooked rigatoni to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
9. Top with sliced Cajun chicken and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
10. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Notes
To mellow the spice, use half the Cajun seasoning or mix it with smoked paprika for balance.
Freshly grated cheeses melt smoother than pre-shredded versions.
If reheating leftovers, use a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx.)
- Calories: 685
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: cajun chicken pasta, creamy rigatoni, mozzarella Alfredo