Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb rigatoni pasta
4 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation

Let’s break this down into manageable steps so you can cook with ease. Here’s how to bring this creamy, Cajun-spiced dream to life:

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breast cubes into a large mixing bowl. Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated. Let it sit while you prep your other ingredients. This gives the flavors time to soak in.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer it to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Rigatoni

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to wash it—those flavorful bits left behind are pure gold), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it looks too thick, this is where a splash or two of that reserved pasta water can help loosen it up without diluting the flavor.

Notes

Use a nonstick or stainless steel skillet for better browning on the chicken.
Cut your chicken pieces into uniform sizes for even cooking.
For smoother sauce, make sure the cheeses are fully melted before combining with pasta.
Don’t skip seasoning the pasta water, it’s the first layer of flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 750
Sodium: 720
Protein: 38