Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this recipe stands out with its bold Cajun seasoning and cheesy goodness. The combination of tender chicken and al dente rigatoni enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
• Creamy Comfort: The heavy cream and cheeses create a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
• Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning adds a unique kick, giving your taste buds an unforgettable experience.
• Versatile Meal: This dish can be served for lunch, dinner, or even as leftovers, making it perfect for any mealtime.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, ensure you have the necessary tools ready. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it cooks to al dente perfection.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken and creating a rich sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients for consistent results every time.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, (or more for bolder flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

How to Make Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, about 10-11 minutes.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season your chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil.
2. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
3. In the last minute of cooking, stir in half of the minced garlic for added flavor.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the rest of the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheeses

1. Add both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy; it should coat the back of a spoon well.

Step 6: Combine Pasta

1. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
2. Taste test your sauce; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
3. Toss in cooked rigatoni into the sauce gently to coat each piece evenly.
4. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.

Step 7: Serve

1. Spoon cheesy rigatoni onto plates.
2. Top with seared Cajun chicken pieces.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Now you are ready to enjoy this delicious Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan!

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan

Serving Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni is all about presentation and complementing the dish’s rich flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Cheese: Add a little more grated Parmesan or mozzarella just before serving for extra creaminess.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette can be great for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine and the tangy dressing pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offer a light contrast to this hearty dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out wonderfully every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and high-quality cheeses will enhance the overall flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure you cook rigatoni al dente so it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference for a customized flavor.
• Use Reserved Pasta Water Wisely: Adding pasta water helps achieve the desired sauce consistency without losing flavor.
• Let Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer creates a rich, creamy texture that clings beautifully to each piece of pasta.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan

Complementing your meal with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this creamy rigatoni.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed in garlic butter add a crunchy, fresh element.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance out the richness of the pasta dish and add a crisp texture.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice offers brightness and nutrients.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds a light touch that complements the creaminess.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or grains provide heartiness while still being colorful on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the rigatoni too long, it will become mushy. Always check for al dente around 10-11 minutes.
• Not Seasoning the Chicken Enough: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Ensure to coat the chicken well with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper for rich flavor.
• Rushing the Sauce: A rushed sauce may not thicken properly. Allow the heavy cream to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and is creamy.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water: This water helps adjust sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining pasta to get the perfect texture.
• Adding Cheese Too Quickly: If you add cheese to a boiling sauce, it may clump. Stir in cheeses slowly when the sauce has cooled slightly for a smooth finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan.

How can I make Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan spicier?

You can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add more crushed red pepper flakes to boost heat levels.

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Yes! While rigatoni works great, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli based on your preference.

What can I serve with Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs well, providing a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s versatile enough for customizing with your favorite proteins or vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting meal!

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Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella & Parmesan. This delightful dish combines tender chicken and al dente rigatoni enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, enhanced by bold Cajun seasoning. Perfect for any occasion, this meal is quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a relaxing night in, this pasta dish is sure to impress. With its cheesy goodness and customizable spice levels, you can easily adjust it to suit your taste. Serve it with warm garlic bread or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, (or more for bolder flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. 2. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, about 10-11 minutes.
3. 3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
4. 4. Season your chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
5. 5. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil.
6. 6. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
7. 7. In the last minute of cooking, stir in half of the minced garlic for added flavor.
8. 8. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.
9. 9. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
10. 10. Add the rest of the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
11. 11. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
12. 12. Add both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce.
13. 13. Stir until smooth and creamy; it should coat the back of a spoon well.
14. 14. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
15. 15. Taste test your sauce; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
16. 16. Toss in cooked rigatoni into the sauce gently to coat each piece evenly.
17. 17. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.
18. 18. Spoon cheesy rigatoni onto plates.
19. 19. Top with seared Cajun chicken pieces.
20. 20. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning.