Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a bold, comforting pasta dish combining spicy Cajun chicken, rich garlic mozzarella sauce, and al dente rigatoni. Perfect for an easy dinner, this Southern-inspired recipe is packed with flavor, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness. Ideal for weeknight meals or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
8 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest before slicing.
3. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
5. Pour in heavy cream, whisk continuously while it simmers. Gradually add shredded mozzarella, whisking until melted and smooth. Thin with pasta water if needed.
6. Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce and coat evenly. Let it simmer 1–2 minutes.
7. Plate the creamy rigatoni. Top with sliced Cajun chicken and garnish with parsley if using.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the smoothest sauce.
Add a splash of pasta water to reheat leftovers to keep the sauce creamy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg