Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

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Comfort food doesn’t get much more indulgent than this. Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is the ultimate creamy-meets-spicy dinner idea that brings restaurant-level flavor straight to your kitchen. The velvety alfredo sauce is infused with a rich blend of Italian herbs and garlic, coating every bite of rigatoni with cheesy goodness. On the other side of the plate, juicy Cajun-spiced chicken brings that bold, smoky edge to balance the creaminess.

Whether you’re hosting friends or craving something cozy for dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The contrast of creamy alfredo with the spicy rub on the chicken makes every forkful a bite of heaven. Bonus? It’s a one-pan pasta and skillet chicken dinner you can whip up on a weeknight, yet it tastes like a Saturday night treat.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

Rigatoni with deep ridges is ideal for this dish. The sauce clings to the surface, delivering more cheesy alfredo and herb flavor in every mouthful. Opt for bronze-cut pasta if you can find it—it absorbs the sauce better and has that extra texture bite that really makes a difference.

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

• Rigatoni pasta: A sturdy tube-shaped pasta perfect for holding the thick, creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: The base of the Alfredo sauce, it gives richness and a velvety texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.
• Cream cheese: Adds tang and helps thicken the sauce without flour.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic for aromatic depth.
• Italian seasoning: A medley of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme to layer flavor in the sauce.
• Butter: Enhances the richness of the Alfredo and sears the chicken beautifully.
• Cajun seasoning: Smoky, spicy, and bold—this coats the chicken for a flavorful crust.
• Chicken breast: Lean and juicy when pan-seared right, it pairs perfectly with the pasta.
• Parsley: For garnish and a fresh herbal note.
• Olive oil: Helps cook the chicken evenly and crisps the edges.

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

Step 1: Boil the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them generously with Cajun seasoning on all sides. Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms and the inside is cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the cream cheese until softened, then pour in the heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning, and stir continuously as it begins to simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish the Sauce

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer on low until it’s thick and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if it gets too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the Alfredo sauce until fully coated. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to soak up the flavor.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange alongside the cheesy rigatoni. Garnish everything with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if you love heat.

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

Serve this dish hot, fresh out of the skillet. For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley right before plating. It makes a fantastic weeknight dinner or a hearty centerpiece for casual gatherings.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the Alfredo sauce. It reheats best on the stove over medium-low heat, but the microwave works too for quick meals.

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

Garlic Bread

Buttery, crisp garlic bread is a must. It complements the creamy Alfredo and helps scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad offers refreshing crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their earthy flavor contrasts beautifully with the creamy and spicy components of the dish.

Sauteed Green Beans

Quick and simple, green beans with a touch of lemon or garlic add a vibrant veggie side.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

The sweet and tangy glaze plays nicely against the Cajun spices on the chicken.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic make a cool, fresh counterpoint.

Crispy Fried Zucchini

If you’re leaning into indulgence, this adds crunch and a fun texture twist.

Red Wine or Iced Tea

Pair with a dry red wine like Chianti or a tall glass of iced tea to round out your meal.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this creamy, cheesy Cajun-style dish, you’ll want to try these flavorful favorites:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan is another comfort-food hero that’s bold, buttery, and irresistible.
• Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight if you want a sweet and savory twist.
• Smoky BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pasta Skillet brings a smoky southern vibe to pasta night.
• Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet for a double dose of spice and hearty protein.
• Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni that wraps everything you love in one creamy, garlicky plate.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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