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Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

If you’re craving bold flavor wrapped in creamy indulgence, Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is calling your name. This easy dinner recipe combines juicy pan-seared chicken coated in Cajun spices, rich mozzarella Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta for a dish that’s as comforting as it is fiery. Ideal for busy weeknights, fancy dinners, or anyone hunting for delicious dinner ideas, easy recipes, or quick comfort food, this pasta hits all the right notes. Whether you’re after a hearty dinner idea or an indulgent weeknight meal, this creamy Cajun pasta won’t disappoint.


Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

⅓ cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter (for searing chicken)

1 tablespoon butter (for sauce)

2 cloves garlic minced

1 ½ cups heavy cream

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Optional: extra Cajun seasoning for garnish


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.

3. In a shallow bowl, mix flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Dredge chicken breasts in the seasoned flour, pressing to coat both sides.

5. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

6. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside and let rest.

7. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.

8. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

9. Stir in mozzarella cheese gradually, until melted and the sauce is smooth.

10. Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

11. Slice the rested chicken and place on top of the pasta.

12. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melting results and smooth sauce.

Don’t overcook the chicken—165°F internal temperature is perfect.

Let the chicken rest before slicing so it stays juicy.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 980mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 21g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: spicy pasta, creamy alfredo, cajun chicken, easy dinner, rigatoni recipe, mozzarella alfredo, comfort food