Print

Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo with Cajun Chicken Strips

Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo with Cajun Chicken Strips
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo with Cajun Chicken Strips is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the richness of a creamy cheese sauce and the zesty kick of Cajun-seasoned chicken. This delightful pasta meal is perfect for family dinners or date nights, offering a satisfying balance of textures and flavors that both kids and adults will adore. In just 30-35 minutes, you can whip up this easy one-pot meal, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup Velveeta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Chopped parsley or dried herbs, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Boil salted water in a large pot; cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and paprika. Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Add garlic and remaining butter in the last minute.
  3. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter; sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to simmer.
  4. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth, then add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and thickened. Mix in Italian seasoning.
  5. Combine cooked rigatoni with sauce; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
  6. Plate rigatoni with Cajun chicken on top; garnish with parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbypenelope.com/creamy-rigatoni-alfredo-with-cajun-chicken-strips/