Description

Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is a creamy, bold, and satisfying dinner featuring perfectly seasoned Cajun chicken and al dente rigatoni smothered in a garlic herb Alfredo sauce. This spicy creamy Cajun pasta dish is perfect for weeknights, easy to prepare, and loaded with flavor.

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ cups heavy cream

¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian herb blend (basil, oregano, thyme, parsley)

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta until al dente, about 10–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and coat generously with Cajun seasoning.

3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and let rest.

4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

6. Slice the rested Cajun chicken into strips or chunks.

7. Toss the rigatoni in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.

8. Serve with Cajun chicken on top or on the side. Garnish with extra herbs or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest Alfredo sauce.

Don’t overcook the chicken—165°F internal temp keeps it juicy.

Add a splash of pasta water to the Alfredo sauce if it thickens too much when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 680
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 740mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 135mg