Description
Mozzarella Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Garlic Cheese Sauce is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and hearty pasta, all enveloped in a rich garlic cheese sauce infused with bold Cajun flavors. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with deliciousness. In just 35 minutes, you can create a meal thatβs both satisfying and impressive. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a casual gathering or plate it elegantly for special occasions. With its mouthwatering blend of cheeses and spices, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, cook seasoned chicken until golden brown (6-8 mins) and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter, sautΓ© garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux; gradually add milk and chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Once simmering, stir in cream cheese until smooth; then mix in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked rigatoni and chicken with the sauce; mix well.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra mozzarella, and bake at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 525
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with sautΓ©ed vegetables and use vegetable broth.