Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is everything you could want in a comfort meal: rich, spicy, and loaded with bold flavor. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken pairs perfectly with al dente rigatoni, all coated in a luscious garlic mozzarella cream sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests, this recipe brings restaurant-level flavor straight to your kitchen.

The sauce is the real star of the dish—garlicky, creamy, and just the right amount of cheesy, with a kick from Cajun seasoning that balances beautifully with the mild mozzarella. It’s a fast favorite among pasta lovers and the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

This dish is a one-pan wonder that delivers flavor without fuss. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for date night or a dinner party. The Cajun seasoning infuses the chicken with smoky heat, while the rigatoni offers the ideal pasta shape to trap the velvety sauce. Plus, the use of mozzarella gives the sauce a creamy pull that’s hard to resist.

If you’re a fan of easy comfort food that doesn’t skimp on taste, this rigatoni checks all the boxes. It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers that actually excite you.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Cajun Rigatoni?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe, as they cook quickly and absorb the Cajun seasoning well. If you prefer a richer flavor, chicken thighs work wonderfully too and stay juicy even after pan-searing. The key is cutting the chicken into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly and stay tender throughout the dish.

Make sure your chicken is well seasoned before it hits the pan—the Cajun spice is essential to the recipe’s bold personality. Letting it develop a slight sear adds texture and brings out the flavor even more.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

To bring this creamy Cajun pasta to life, you need ingredients that balance bold flavor with richness. Each one plays an important role in delivering the final punch of flavor and creaminess.

• Rigatoni
• Chicken breast or thighs
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley

The rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully with its ridged tubes. Chicken brings the protein and soaks up the Cajun flavors. Cajun seasoning is what gives this dish its smoky, spicy essence. Olive oil and butter help sear the chicken and build a rich base. Garlic infuses the sauce with savory depth, while heavy cream, mozzarella, and a touch of Parmesan create that ultra-creamy texture. Chicken broth adds body and helps loosen the sauce if needed. Season everything with a pinch of salt and pepper, then finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Let the sauce simmer gently.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained rigatoni. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce and heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Finish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you like. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy Cajun goodness!

How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

This recipe is perfect for serving four hungry people with generous portions. You can serve it straight from the skillet for a cozy family-style dinner or plate it up individually for a more polished presentation. The rigatoni holds onto the creamy sauce in every bite, making it a satisfying and filling main course on its own.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. This pasta also freezes well—just let it cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stovetop for best results.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the classic pairing and helps mop up the rich sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli balances the richness and adds a fresh, earthy bite.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The nutty, slightly bitter flavor of Brussels sprouts makes a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta.

Mixed Green Salad

A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn brings out the Cajun spices and adds a nice crunch.

Sauteed Zucchini

Mild, buttery zucchini sautéed in garlic complements the garlic sauce without overpowering it.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled or roasted asparagus spears offer smoky, bright flavor that cuts through the creaminess.

Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower

Add a crispy, cheesy veggie side for those who want something extra indulgent but low-carb.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you enjoyed this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni, you might want to check out a few other unique takes on pasta recipes that bring bold flavor and comforting textures:

• Try the Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a meaty, savory alternative.
• If seafood is your thing, the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna delivers elegance and richness.
• Looking for heat? The Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta brings spice without the fuss.
• Craving mushrooms? The Creamy Mushroom Ravioli hits all the earthy, silky notes.
• For a hearty skillet meal, check out the Healthy Sausage Veggie Skillet.

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📌 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 make it extra spicy? Swap in a different cheese? Try it with shrimp instead of chicken?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make dinner exciting.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to pasta dishes and more.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce brings everything you want in a satisfying pasta dish: heat, creaminess, boldness, and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for guests or craving a hearty weeknight meal, this recipe delivers every time. Rich enough to feel indulgent and easy enough to whip up in under an hour, it’s the kind of dinner that turns into a regular request.

Let this be your new go-to when pasta night needs a flavor upgrade!

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