Description
Craving something rich, bold, and soul-satisfying? This Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is the perfect mix of comfort and heat. Creamy Alfredo sauce laced with Italian herbs coats every piece of rigatoni, while juicy Cajun-spiced chicken adds a smoky, spicy contrast. This easy recipe delivers big flavor for a cozy dinner idea or quick comfort meal—perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you’re simply out of food ideas and want something next-level delicious. Ideal for fans of creamy pasta, easy dinner recipes, and bold food flavors.
Ingredients
400g rigatoni pasta
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon Italian herb blend
Salt to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Coat chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and olive oil.
2. Sear chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Set aside and slice.
3. Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
4. In another pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes.
5. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and Italian herb blend until sauce thickens.
7. Add cooked rigatoni and toss to coat. Loosen with pasta water if needed.
8. Plate the pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken.
9. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
You can prep the Alfredo sauce a day ahead and store it refrigerated until ready to use.
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce cheese slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: quick dinner, Cajun pasta, creamy chicken pasta, spicy Alfredo, easy pasta dish