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–+ servings

Cajun Garlic Pasta

Discover a creamy, spicy, and comforting Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning plus more if you like it spicier
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • q.s. Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • q.s. Chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet for searing chicken and making the sauce
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Garlic press (optional)

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat and add cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt into a smooth sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
  6. Add rigatoni and seared chicken back into the skillet, tossing until evenly coated. Warm through for about 2 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For added flavor, toast breadcrumbs in butter and sprinkle over the top before serving. Feel free to adjust the spice level with more or less Cajun seasoning based on your preference. This pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
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