Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni served in a bowl with parsley garnish
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Cajun spices with tender chicken and creamy sauce. This pasta dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice because it’s easy to prepare and incredibly tasty. The blend of Cajun seasoning with creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s also a one-pan dish, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, who doesn’t love a good pasta meal?

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Ingredients

  • 2 cups rigatoni pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  6. Stir in the butter, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Mix in the parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens.
  8. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss until well coated.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni hot, straight from the pan. You can add extra grated parmesan on top for more flavor. A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

  • Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds its shape and texture.
  • If you prefer more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them along with the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

2. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just be aware that the sauce may change texture when reheated.

Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni! It’s a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table.

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian
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Description

A delightful pasta dish combining Cajun spices, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce, perfect for any night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups rigatoni pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  6. Stir in the butter, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Mix in the parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens.
  8. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss until well coated.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also customize with vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: pasta, Cajun chicken, creamy sauce, rigatoni, one-pan meal

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