Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

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If you’re craving something bold, cheesy, and downright irresistible, this Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is the dinner recipe for you. Picture this: tender blackened chicken slices nestled beside al dente rigatoni coated in the silkiest, most indulgent Alfredo sauce. It’s a flavor-packed Southern twist on classic comfort food that will keep everyone coming back for more.

The Cajun spices bring heat and soul, while the gooey melted mozzarella adds that signature creaminess we all love. It’s not only a hearty dish but a full-on experience. Whether you’re feeding the family or just looking to spice up your weeknight rotation, this meal delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, having the right tools matters just as much as the ingredients:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: Crucial for achieving that golden, flavorful crust on the Cajun-seasoned chicken.
• Large Saucepan: You’ll want plenty of room to boil your rigatoni evenly without clumping.
• Whisk: Helps emulsify the Alfredo sauce and ensures it’s creamy with no lumps.
• Tongs: For flipping the chicken without piercing it and losing juices.
• Colander: Makes draining the pasta simple and efficient.
• Grater: Freshly grated mozzarella melts far better than pre-shredded, giving your sauce that dreamy texture.

Each tool plays a key role in building the textures and flavors that define this dish.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-packed, they’re the canvas for the bold Cajun spices.
• Rigatoni Pasta: Its ridged shape is perfect for catching all that luscious Alfredo sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a creamy blanket, thickening the sauce with rich, gooey texture.
• Heavy Cream: The silky base of the Alfredo, adding body and depth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick to balance the creaminess.
• Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the heat; smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet.
• Garlic (minced): Provides aromatic depth and warmth.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
• Butter: Enriches the Alfredo base and binds everything together.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the dish just right.
• Parsley (optional): For a fresh pop of color and mild earthiness.

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How To Make the Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat both sides generously with Cajun seasoning. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms and it’s cooked through. Remove from pan and let it rest.

Step 3: Boil the Rigatoni

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook to al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously. Gradually add parmesan and mozzarella cheese, whisking until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.

Step 6: Slice and Serve the Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Plate the saucy rigatoni and top or serve alongside with the Cajun chicken. Garnish with parsley if desired.

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Serving and Storing Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

This dish is best served hot, right off the skillet. The creamy mozzarella Alfredo clings beautifully to the rigatoni, and the spicy Cajun chicken adds a punchy contrast that satisfies instantly. Serve it in wide bowls or on large plates to showcase the golden sear on the chicken and the cheese-dripping pasta.

If you’re planning for leftovers (or meal prepping), let everything cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer the pasta and chicken into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm it on the stove over low heat until the sauce loosens up and turns silky again.

For longer storage, freeze the Alfredo pasta separately from the chicken in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is medium, thanks to the Cajun seasoning. You can increase or reduce the spice by adjusting the seasoning blend to suit your taste.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne or fettuccine are great alternatives, but rigatoni’s shape does a stellar job at trapping the sauce.

Is it okay to use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

While homemade gives you the freshest, richest flavor, store-bought Alfredo works in a pinch. Just add mozzarella for creaminess and extra flavor.

What’s the best way to make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta for best texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Cajun seasoning is certified gluten-free.

What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with this rich and hearty meal.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo, you’ll definitely want to try more flavor-forward pasta creations from Life With Olivia:

• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese – a comforting blend of crispy chicken and cheesy pasta.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini – creamy, garlicky, and endlessly cozy.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – for when you want a veggie boost with your comfort food.
• Sweet & Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta – where tangy BBQ meets tender pasta.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – a skillet-style Southern favorite with buttery richness.

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out! Did you go extra spicy or mellow it out? Did you try another pasta shape?

Your feedback and twists make the recipe even better, so don’t be shy—share your spin or ask away!

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