Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a plate of pasta, especially when it’s drenched in Cajun garlic butter. This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni recipe has stolen my heart and quickly become a family favorite. It’s creamy, spicy, and packs a punch with flavor that’s hard to resist. If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion, stay right here with me.

This dish marries the richness of butter with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine, creating a perfect harmony that will leave your taste buds singing. The beauty of Cajun garlic butter rigatoni lies not only in its flavor but also in its versatility. You can easily adjust the heat level by modifying the Cajun seasoning to suit your preference. Plus, it’s a wonderful option to spice up your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning, and cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Add Cheese:

Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy. Add more Cajun seasoning if desired, adjusting to your taste.

Combine:

Toss the cooked rigatoni and chicken into the skillet, making sure everything is well-coated with that luscious Cajun garlic butter sauce.

Serve:

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a delicious finish. Serve hot and enjoy.

Nutritional Information

This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni recipe serves about six people. Each serving contains approximately 650 calories, 40g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein. For a healthier alternative, consider using whole wheat rigatoni or swapping in grilled shrimp for the chicken.

Healthier Alternatives

Want to lighten things up a bit? You can use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Don’t forget about veggies. Adding spinach or bell peppers can increase the nutritional value and add vibrant colors.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up that glorious sauce. If you’re feeling extra festive, consider serving it alongside some Cajun Parmesan Steak Bites, which complement the flavors beautifully. You can check out the recipe for those heavenly bites here.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Trust me, no one wants mushy rigatoni. Aim for al dente, which means your pasta will hold its shape and texture when tossed with the sauce. Additionally, be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Chef’s Notes

• For an added kick, toss in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Feel free to swap in other proteins, like shrimp or sausage, for variety.
• This dish is great for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  A1: Yes; Just store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers and reheat when ready to serve.
• Q2: What can I use instead of chicken?
  A2: You can use shrimp or even some blackened tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Q3: Is Cajun seasoning gluten-free?
  A3: Most Cajun seasonings are gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure.

With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can whip up this Cajun Garlic Butter Rigatoni that your family will adore. The flavors burst on your palate, making any meal feel special. So, grab your apron and get ready to serve a dish that’s truly delightful.

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