Description

Craving something creamy, cheesy, and boldly seasoned? This Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is a flavor-packed, one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekend meals. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken meets a velvety Alfredo sauce layered with Italian herbs, garlic, cream, and Parmesan—all wrapped around ridged rigatoni that holds every ounce of flavor. Whether you’re seeking quick dinner ideas, easy comfort food, or pasta dishes with a kick, this meal delivers satisfying results every time.

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp olive oil

2 chicken breasts

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 oz cream cheese

1 1/4 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt to taste

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

2. Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat with Cajun seasoning.

3. In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high. Sear the chicken 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and let rest.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

5. Stir in cream cheese until soft. Pour in heavy cream and add Italian seasoning. Simmer.

6. Mix in Parmesan cheese. Let sauce thicken on low heat. Add pasta water if needed.

7. Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce. Stir and let simmer 2 minutes.

8. Slice the chicken and serve over the pasta. Garnish with parsley and extra Cajun seasoning if desired.

Notes

Use bronze-cut rigatoni for better sauce adhesion.

Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen sauce when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 685
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 155mg

Keywords: quick dinner, pasta recipe, spicy Alfredo, creamy chicken pasta, easy comfort food