Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo
Introduction
If you love pasta with a kick, this one’s for you. Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo brings together smoky Cajun spices, tender chicken, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of rigatoni. It’s the perfect balance of heat and comfort—bold enough for spice lovers, creamy enough for pure indulgence.
Ingredients & Quantities
1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (add more for extra heat)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 oz cream cheese
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season & Cook the Chicken
Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Create the Alfredo Base
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the pan. Reduce heat to low.
Add the Cheese
Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Combine & Finish
Add rigatoni and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss well and simmer for 2 minutes until everything is coated and heated through.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra mozzarella if desired. Serve warm.
Description
This dish delivers smoky Cajun-spiced chicken, hearty rigatoni, and a rich mozzarella Alfredo sauce that’s creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for more.
Origin & Cultural Significance
Inspired by Louisiana Cajun cuisine, known for bold spices and deep flavor, this recipe blends Southern heat with Italian-style creamy pasta. It’s a modern fusion that reflects how comfort food evolves across cultures—big flavors, shared at the table.
Optional Additions
Sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra Cajun flair
Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for balance
Red pepper flakes for more heat
Smoked sausage for a heartier dish
A splash of white wine for added depth
Tips for Success
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your heat preference
Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce
Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent curdling
Rigatoni works best because it holds the sauce inside
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 680
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 34g
Calcium: 30% DV
Conclusion
Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is the ultimate comfort dish with attitude. It’s rich, bold, and satisfying—perfect for weeknights when you want something indulgent and unforgettable.
Recommendation
Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. This dish is ideal for family dinners, cozy nights in, or impressing guests without stress.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Comfort food doesn’t have to mean guilt. Enjoy this creamy, spicy pasta mindfully—add veggies, savor each bite, and remember that balance is about joy as much as nutrition ❤️🍽️
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