Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce 🍗🧄🧀
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
- 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.
- 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.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and deglaze the pan.
- 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.
- Season: Add Italian seasoning and a pinch of Cajun spice for extra depth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated evenly in the luscious cheese sauce.
- Finish & Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy! 🌿🔥
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use penne or fettuccine instead of rigatoni if you prefer.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients. 🫑🌿
- Love spice? Double the Cajun seasoning for an extra kick!
