11/09/2025
Creamy Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients:
3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
18 oz rigatoni pasta
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
2 1/4 tsp Cajun seasoning
3/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3/4 cup grated Parmesan (for coating the chicken)
For the Three-Cheese Cream Sauce:
2 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 1/8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar
1 1/8 cups grated Parmesan
3 oz cream cheese
3/4 tsp Italian seasoning
3/4 tsp dried basil
1/3 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until just tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Pat the chicken dry. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press the grated Parmesan onto the chicken so it sticks.
3. Heat olive oil and 3 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 5–7 minutes, turning until golden and cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, add half the garlic and 1 tbsp butter. Let it melt into the chicken. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
5. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add the remaining garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and warm to a light simmer.
7. Add the cream cheese and stir until smooth. Add the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is thick, creamy, and smooth.
8. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
9. Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss gently so every piece is coated. Let it sit on low heat for about a minute.
10. Serve with the garlic Parmesan chicken on top or mixed in. Finish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~840 per serving