Description
Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo with Cajun Chicken Strips is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and textures that will elevate your dining experience. This comforting dish features al dente rigatoni pasta enveloped in a velvety Alfredo sauce, perfectly complemented by spicy Cajun chicken strips. With its creamy cheese blend and aromatic garlic, this meal is not just satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish promises to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet; sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Add half of the minced garlic during the last minute.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté garlic. Pour in heavy cream and broth; bring to a simmer. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in cheeses and Italian seasoning until melted and thickened.
- Combine pasta with sauce; adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Serve rigatoni topped with Cajun chicken strips and garnish as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 ½ cups (350g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 140mg