Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
- 1/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (more if desired)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- Optional: 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Directions
Follow these simple steps to whip up your dish:
- Step 1: Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Step 2: Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.
- Step 6: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Use reserved pasta water to thin, if needed.
- Step 7: Return the rigatoni and cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes for all flavors to meld.
- Step 8: Garnish with chopped parsley. If you love it extra cheesy, sprinkle more mozzarella on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, sausage, or tofu can be great alternatives that will work well with the sauce.
2. How can I make it lower in calories?
You can use low-fat cream or cheese alternatives, and reduce the amount of oil and butter used while cooking.
3. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy sauce and pasta are generally very appealing to children. Adjust the spice level to suit their taste.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and reheat when ready to serve. Cook the pasta fresh for best results.
5. How can I store leftover Cajun Chicken Rigatoni?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Alfredo brings a comforting, flavorful experience to your meal table. The blend of spices, creamy textures, and the heartiness of pasta makes this dish not just satisfying but also a joy to create. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress family and friends alike. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every bite of this delicious Cajun-inspired masterpiece!
