Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a bold and irresistible dinner that brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your table. Perfectly seasoned Cajun chicken is pan-seared to a golden crisp, sliced, and nestled over tender rigatoni that’s been drenched in a silky, garlic-infused mozzarella cream sauce. It’s rich, spicy, cheesy, and beyond satisfying.

The contrast between the smoky Cajun spices and the melty garlic mozzarella is what makes this pasta unforgettable. The sauce clings to each piece of rigatoni, giving you creamy, cheesy bites in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or feeding a crowd, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

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What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

When making a creamy dish like this, regular rigatoni or rigatoni rigate (the ridged kind) are both great options. Rigatoni rigate is ideal because the ridges help the sauce stick to the pasta better, delivering more flavor in each bite.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for slicing into juicy, flavorful strips after searing with Cajun spices.
• Cajun Seasoning: This bold blend gives the chicken its smoky, spicy kick. You can use store-bought or homemade.
• Rigatoni Pasta: The large, tube-like shape holds up well with creamy sauces and captures bits of chicken and herbs.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the rich, velvety base of the garlic mozzarella sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds stretchy, melty goodness and a mild creaminess to balance the spice.
• Garlic (minced): Infuses the cream sauce with savory, aromatic flavor.
• Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and create a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like an extra layer of heat.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning. Let them rest at room temperature while you prepare the pasta.

Step 2: Boil the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden. Transfer to a plate and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Once it begins to simmer, slowly add the shredded mozzarella while stirring until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained rigatoni directly into the sauce. Stir gently to coat every piece in the cheesy garlic goodness. Add sliced chicken on top.

Step 6: Finish with Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) over the top. Serve hot and enjoy that melty mozzarella pull!

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Serving and Storing This Cajun Rigatoni

This pasta is best served immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the sauce clings perfectly to the rigatoni. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple arugula salad for balance. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It varies by brand, but most Cajun seasonings are moderately spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less and build up to taste.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or even shells can work well with this sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used in a pinch, though the sauce may be slightly less thick and rich.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge within a few days.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken can be used. Just season with Cajun spice and warm it through before adding.

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Want More Pasta Recipes with a Kick?

If you love this creamy Cajun-style rigatoni, don’t miss these other savory pasta favorites:

• Creamy Tortellini Recipe for cheesy comfort in every bite.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a cozy one-pan meal.
• Red Pepper Rigatoni for a bold twist with smoky sweetness.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo if you’re in the mood for red meat decadence.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a quick, rich weeknight meal.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it anytime you need a bold, comforting meal.

And when you give it a try, let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you go extra spicy? Add mushrooms or bell peppers?

I love hearing your creative spins and swaps. Questions and tips are welcome—let’s make dinner more delicious together.

Looking for even more cozy, cheesy meals? Check out my daily recipe pins over on Pinterest @hallarecipes for your next dinner inspiration.

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