Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

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Creamy, cheesy, spicy, and packed with bold flavors — this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce is the kind of dinner that turns any night into a cozy indulgence. Imagine tender chicken coated in garlicky Cajun spices, tossed with rigatoni pasta, and smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce that melts right into every bite.

It’s the perfect harmony of comfort and heat, and what makes it even better is how easily it comes together. Whether you’re craving a restaurant-style pasta dish at home or want to surprise guests with something outrageously good, this recipe delivers the wow factor without the stress. This is a true weeknight winner with weekend-worthy taste.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This dish combines the bold kick of Cajun seasoning with the richness of garlic butter and the creamy dreaminess of Alfredo sauce. It hits all the right notes — spicy, savory, and deeply satisfying. Plus, the rigatoni pasta does an incredible job of holding onto the sauce in every groove, making each forkful comforting and flavorful. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels like a celebration on a plate.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is the star here because of its tube shape and ridged surface, which catch all the creamy Alfredo sauce and bits of chicken beautifully. If you don’t have rigatoni on hand, penne or ziti are close alternatives that also hold up well to thick, rich sauces. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft once everything is tossed together in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

To make this rich and flavor-packed pasta dish, you don’t need a long list of hard-to-find items. Each ingredient brings a layer of depth, creaminess, or spice that builds into one unforgettable dish. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

• Rigatoni pasta
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• Salted butter
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Cream cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook it, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips, then coat them generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Add cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Stir in shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until the sauce becomes rich and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rigatoni and Cajun chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Serve hot and creamy with crusty bread or a crisp side salad.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce

This indulgent pasta dish is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy and the chicken is juicy. It’s a hearty meal that comfortably feeds about 4 hungry people, making it great for family dinners or a casual gathering with friends. Serve it straight from the skillet or transfer to a large serving bowl for a more elegant presentation. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra shaving of Parmesan right before serving will give it that irresistible finish.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce and bring back its silky texture. Microwave gently or warm in a saucepan over low heat while stirring often.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Nothing beats soaking up that Alfredo sauce with a warm piece of crispy garlic bread.

Caesar Salad

The cool crunch of romaine lettuce and tangy dressing balances out the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

A bit of roasted green on the side adds a pop of color and a slightly bitter contrast to the creamy sauce.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

A cozy soup starter that sets the mood for comfort food heaven.

Grilled Zucchini

Light and charred veggies bring a smoky freshness to the plate.

Sparkling Lemon Water

A fizzy citrus drink is a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

Antipasto Skewers

Skewers with olives, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes add a fun appetizer twist.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Their tangy-sweet flavor pairs surprisingly well with the bold Cajun seasoning.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re into comforting pasta dishes with serious flavor, here are some other reader favorites you might love next:

• Try our Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a similar creamy rigatoni base with a savory sausage twist.
• Dive into the bold layers of Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a seafood spin on rich sauces.
• Keep it quick and flavorful with this Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe for those nights when you need dinner fast.
• If you enjoy cheesy comfort food, the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta will be your next obsession.
• For a cozy baked version, check out the Low Carb Chicken Casserole with creamy, bubbly goodness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy with the Cajun or keep it mellow? Did you sneak in any extra veggies?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook bolder meals at home.

Explore beautifully curated pasta and weeknight dinner ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to favorites.

Conclusion

This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce is everything you want in a comfort food dish: flavorful, creamy, satisfying, and downright irresistible. The Cajun-spiced chicken brings just the right kick, while the cheesy Alfredo hugs every piece of pasta like a warm blanket.

It’s perfect for when you want something indulgent but still easy enough for a weeknight. Whether it’s your first time trying Cajun pasta or you’re a spicy food fanatic, this recipe belongs in your rotation. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite pasta dinner.

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