Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

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There’s something soul-satisfying about a big bowl of creamy pasta, especially when it’s rigatoni swirled in a cheesy Alfredo sauce infused with Italian herbs. Add a perfectly seared Cajun chicken breast on top, and you’ve just turned a weeknight meal into a comforting showstopper.

This dish marries creamy indulgence with bold, spicy flavor. The Alfredo is rich with garlic and herbs, balanced by the bite of Parmesan and a hint of creaminess that clings beautifully to every tube of rigatoni. Then comes the Cajun chicken, seasoned to perfection with a kick that makes this pasta unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

You’re getting the best of both worlds here. Creamy and cheesy comfort, with a flavorful punch from the Cajun seasoning. It’s a one-bowl meal that hits all the right notes — protein, carbs, fat, and bold flavor. And because rigatoni holds onto the sauce so well, you get that satisfying texture in every bite.

This recipe is also weeknight-friendly. You can prep your chicken while the pasta boils and have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. It looks fancy, but it’s secretly very easy to pull together.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

Not all Cajun blends are created equal. Some lean heavily on salt, while others emphasize garlic, onion, or paprika. Look for a seasoning blend that has a balance of heat and flavor, and always taste it first to check the salt level. If you’re sensitive to spice, go for a mild Cajun seasoning or make your own so you can control the heat. And if you love things fiery, feel free to amp it up with a dash of cayenne.

Ingredients for the Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

This dish may taste like something from a cozy trattoria, but the ingredient list is refreshingly simple. It’s all about building flavor with a few key components, then letting them shine.

• Rigatoni pasta
• Chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper

How To Make the Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and a bit of olive oil. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

While the chicken cooks, boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, then drain, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until it begins to simmer. Add Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked rigatoni into the sauce, tossing to coat. If it’s too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the creamy pasta, then top with sliced Cajun chicken. Finish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One of the biggest mistakes with Alfredo-style sauces is overheating the cream, which can cause it to separate. Keep the heat low and stir often for a silky texture. Another common pitfall is overcooking the pasta. Rigatoni should be firm enough to hold its shape and texture in the creamy sauce. And don’t forget to taste the Cajun seasoning beforehand—some blends can be salt-heavy and overwhelm the dish.

How to Serve and Store Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

This recipe generously feeds four hungry people, making it great for small gatherings or family dinner. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and maybe a few red pepper flakes for extra kick.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life and warm gently over the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken?

Garlic Bread with Herb Butter

A crusty loaf slathered in herb-garlic butter is perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

The crisp texture and slightly bitter flavor of roasted broccoli balance the creaminess of the pasta.

Simple Caesar Salad

A tangy Caesar dressing with crisp romaine and crunchy croutons lightens up the richness of the dish.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their deep flavor and crispy edges add a nice contrast.

Tomato Basil Bruschetta

This fresh, zesty bite adds a bright contrast to the creamy Alfredo.

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

A low-carb, velvety side that mimics mashed potatoes with a little twist.

Italian Antipasto Skewers

Little bites of mozzarella, olives, salami, and cherry tomatoes are a fun appetizer before the main dish.

Lemon Garlic Green Beans

Crisp green beans with lemon zest and garlic add freshness and crunch.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken, you’re definitely going to enjoy more creamy, bold, and irresistible pasta dishes. Try one of these next:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for that luscious garlic-cream pairing.
• Sausage Alfredo Ravioli Lasagna if you want layers of flavor in every bite.
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for a sun-dried tomato twist.
• Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara when you’re craving comfort food with flair.
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Rigatoni if you’re feeling indulgent and meaty.

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 heavy on the Cajun or keep it mild? Maybe added some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach?

I love hearing how you all make these recipes your own. Drop your tips and twists, or ask a question if you hit a snag. We’re all here to make dinner delicious.

Explore beautifully curated dinner inspirations on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy recipe!

Conclusion

Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is that rare combination of creamy, spicy, comforting, and exciting. With everyday ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dinner that feels luxurious without the fuss. Once you try it, it might just become a staple in your pasta rotation.

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