Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

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If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s bold, creamy, and packed with a little heat, this Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo will quickly become your new weeknight favorite. Picture tender pieces of juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni, all smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce that’s elevated with melted mozzarella. Every forkful is a balance of creamy indulgence and that signature Cajun kick.

This dish is perfect for when you want something comforting but with a twist that wakes up your taste buds. It’s hearty enough for a cozy dinner at home yet impressive enough to serve to guests who will think you’ve been cooking all day. The secret? A few pantry staples, a good sprinkle of Cajun seasoning, and the magic of mozzarella melting into the sauce for that irresistible cheesy pull.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

The combination of spicy Cajun chicken and rich mozzarella Alfredo sauce hits all the right notes: creamy, savory, slightly smoky, and just the right amount of spice. It’s an easy one-pan wonder that saves you on cleanup and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to suit everyone at the table.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

While rigatoni is the star here, thanks to its ridges that catch every drop of sauce, you can experiment with penne, ziti, or even fusilli if that’s what you have on hand. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds up well to the creamy, cheesy sauce and hearty chunks of chicken.

Ingredients for the Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

This recipe is all about building layers of flavor, and each ingredient plays an important role in making that happen. From the Cajun seasoning that gives the chicken its smoky heat to the mozzarella that melts into a luscious sauce, every element is there for a reason.

• Rigatoni pasta – The ridged tubes capture the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated in flavor.
• Chicken breast – Lean and tender, it absorbs the Cajun spices perfectly.
• Cajun seasoning – Brings the heat, smokiness, and depth that define this dish.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection while adding richness.
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with an aromatic base.
• Heavy cream – Creates the luxurious Alfredo texture.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts into the sauce for creamy, stretchy indulgence.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty note to balance the creaminess.
• Butter – Enriches the sauce and gives it a silky finish.
• Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish with fresh, herby contrast.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

How To Make the Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and coat generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown on the outside and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low and stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Adjust the consistency with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Serving and Storing Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

This recipe serves about 4 people generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. For the best experience, serve it straight from the skillet while it’s piping hot so the mozzarella stays gooey and stretchy.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove over low heat. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the chicken dry.

What to Serve With Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any extra Alfredo sauce on your plate.

Side Salad with Italian Dressing

A crisp salad balances the richness of the pasta and refreshes your palate.

Roasted Vegetables

Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots complement the Cajun flavors beautifully.

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch and a boost of color to the plate.

Creamy Coleslaw

A tangy coleslaw can help cut through the richness of the sauce.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

The sweetness of corn works well against the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning.

Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Fresh tomatoes and basil on toasted bread offer a bright and zesty contrast.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Quickly sautéed spinach brings an earthy, slightly bitter note that balances the creamy pasta.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for another Cajun-inspired comfort dish.
• Creamy Cajun Linguine with a smooth, spicy sauce that clings to every strand.
• Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken for a cheesy, saucy weeknight option.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine when you want bright, garlicky flavors with your 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 keep the spice level high, or dial it back? Did you add extra cheese for that extra pull?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are always welcome—we can help each other cook smarter and tastier.

Explore beautifully curated pasta and dinner recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy meal.

Conclusion

Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is proof that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of Cajun flair, you can have a restaurant-quality meal at home that’s hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy.

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