Description
Looking for an easy dinner idea that hits every flavor note? This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce is the perfect mix of spicy, creamy, and satisfying. Tender Cajun-spiced chicken is seared in garlic butter, then tossed with rigatoni pasta coated in a silky homemade Alfredo sauce. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, crave something comforting, or want to impress guests with an easy recipe full of bold flavors—this one's a guaranteed hit. It's one of those food ideas that instantly becomes a repeat request.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic minced
12 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
4. In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked rigatoni to the Alfredo sauce and toss until coated. Use pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Grate your own Parmesan for a smoother sauce that melts easily.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
Reserve some pasta water—it’s key for adjusting the Alfredo sauce texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 730
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: easy recipe, creamy pasta, dinner ideas, chicken pasta, alfredo pasta, spicy chicken pasta, food ideas, quick weeknight meal