Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce 🍗🧄🧀

Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 30–35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~780 per serving

This indulgent dish combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with creamy, garlicky rigatoni coated in a rich three-cheese sauce. It’s bold, comforting, and guaranteed to impress at any dinner table! 😋

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into strips or bite-size pieces
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and deglaze the pan.
5. Add the Cheeses: Lower heat and whisk in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan gradually until creamy and thick.
6. Season: Add Italian seasoning and a pinch of Cajun spice for extra depth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes.
7. Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated evenly in the luscious cheese sauce.
8. Finish & Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy! 🌿🔥