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Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
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Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy pasta dish featuring tender chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, rigatoni pasta, and a luscious garlic-infused mozzarella sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal that’s both comforting and impressive for family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Pasta

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta

Seasonings and Spices

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Garnish (optional)

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, generously coat the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to maximize flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and browned. Transfer to a plate and slice into strips.
  4. Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine and Finish: Add the cooked rigatoni and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Cook together for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors perfectly.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for better aroma and depth of flavor.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
  • Grate your own cheese for better melting and texture.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken rigatoni, garlic mozzarella sauce, creamy pasta, spicy chicken pasta, weeknight dinner, comfort food, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/cajun-chicken-rigatoni-with-garlic-mozzarella-sauce/