Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

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If there were ever a dish that delivered pure comfort with a spicy kick, it’s this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce. Creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of heat, this pasta dish is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of. Picture tender bites of chicken coated in a flavorful Cajun seasoning, pan-seared to perfection, and tossed into a luscious Alfredo sauce made even richer with garlic butter.

The rigatoni pasta holds onto all that creamy sauce in every bite, making it irresistibly satisfying. This recipe strikes that magical balance between indulgence and spice. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, it comes together quickly but tastes like it took hours. One forkful and you’ll understand why this one’s going straight into the regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

This dish is a flavor bomb in the best way possible. The Cajun seasoning brings boldness, while the garlic butter adds a comforting, savory depth. Pair that with the creamy Alfredo sauce and you’ve got a meal that satisfies every craving. It also uses pantry-friendly ingredients, making it an easy yet luxurious option for busy nights.

Plus, it’s versatile. You can easily swap in shrimp, use gluten-free pasta, or throw in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. It’s comfort food that you can make your own.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Rigatoni is ideal because of its ridges and tube shape, which hold onto every bit of that cheesy Alfredo sauce and seasoned chicken. If you don’t have rigatoni on hand, penne or ziti are solid alternatives. You want a pasta that’s sturdy and has some texture, so it can carry all that bold flavor without getting lost in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

When it comes to creating bold flavor with minimal effort, this ingredient list hits all the right notes. Each component builds depth, from the spices to the cream, resulting in a sauce so good you’ll want to lick the spoon.

• Rigatoni pasta
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• Salted butter
• Fresh garlic
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Parsley (optional for garnish)

Rigatoni pasta gives this dish body and structure, perfect for soaking up the sauce. Boneless skinless chicken breasts are lean, quick to cook, and absorb the seasoning beautifully. Cajun seasoning is the star here, lending heat, smokiness, and a punch of flavor. We use salted butter and fresh garlic to create a rich, aromatic base. Heavy cream makes the Alfredo irresistibly creamy, while a combo of Parmesan cheese and Mozzarella cheese adds depth and stretch. Finish with salt and pepper to taste, a drizzle of olive oil for searing, and parsley if you want a touch of green on top.

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the salted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Toss the rigatoni into the Alfredo sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed for consistency. Stir in the sliced chicken and let everything warm through for a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the creamy Cajun rigatoni and top with parsley for garnish. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

This creamy pasta is best served fresh, right off the stove when the sauce is still warm and silky. It makes for a hearty main dish that doesn’t need much else on the side. This recipe comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people depending on appetite size, making it perfect for a small gathering or a weeknight family dinner.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a must for soaking up every last bit of the Alfredo sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers pair perfectly and balance the creamy textures.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

The smoky sweetness of grilled corn brings out the Cajun flavors even more.

Caesar Salad

Classic and crisp, Caesar salad makes a great side with its bold, tangy dressing.

Sautéed Green Beans

Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic and lemon keep things fresh and vibrant.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

For extra indulgence, serve alongside crispy, cheesy roasted potatoes.

Sparkling Lemon Water

Cleanse the palate with something light and citrusy, especially if you’re enjoying this dish for lunch.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you’re into this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce, then you’ll definitely want to check out these bold and satisfying pasta dishes:

• Try the spicy, creamy vibes of One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for another easy dinner with deep Louisiana flavor.
• For a tangy, cheesy comfort fix, the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini brings Tex-Mex to your pasta night.
• Looking for a veggie-loaded option? You might love the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli that’s cozy, cheesy, and still wholesome.
• You can also switch up the protein by diving into this herby, lemony twist with the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine.

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And when you do make it, let me know how it turned out! Did you add extra Cajun heat? Toss in some veggies? I’m always curious to see how others make it their own.

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Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce is a meal made for moments when you crave something rich, bold, and irresistibly creamy. It’s easy to pull together but fancy enough to feel special. Whether it’s for a quiet night in or a small dinner party, this recipe brings people to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds. Comfort food, leveled up with Cajun flair.

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