Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 10 ounces rigatoni pasta; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 garlic cloves minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 ½ cups low-moisture mozzarella shredded; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional); ½ cup reserved pasta water

I love a dish that packs bold flavor without needing hours in the kitchen—and this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce delivers exactly that. The heat from Cajun spices, paired with the richness of a silky garlic mozzarella cream sauce, makes this one of my favorite go-to comfort meals. It’s hearty, satisfying, and checks every box when I’m craving something indulgent yet simple to whip up.

I first made this recipe on a whim, trying to use up leftover rigatoni and a few chicken breasts in the fridge. One thing led to another: a touch of garlic here, some Cajun seasoning there, and a final flourish of melty mozzarella. The result? A saucy, spicy, cheesy plate of pure joy. If you’ve got 30 minutes and a craving for something bold and creamy, this might just become your new favorite too.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

This dish brings restaurant-level flavor to your own kitchen without the hassle. The Cajun seasoning gives it a zesty kick, while the garlic mozzarella sauce balances the heat with mellow creaminess. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to impress with minimal effort. Plus, rigatoni’s ridges hold the sauce beautifully, so every bite is loaded with flavor.

What Type of Chicken Works Best for Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni?

I always prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and absorb the Cajun flavors beautifully. That said, chicken thighs are an excellent option if you want juicier, richer bites—they hold up well to the bold spices and creamy sauce. If you’re really in a pinch, even shredded rotisserie chicken can work, though you’ll lose a bit of the Cajun-seared crust that makes this dish pop.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some easy ways to make it your own:

Pasta: If you don’t have rigatoni, swap in penne, ziti, or even fettuccine. Just choose a pasta that holds onto sauce well.
Cajun Seasoning: No Cajun blend on hand? Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, and black pepper for a quick DIY version.
Heavy Cream: Want it lighter? Use half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
Mozzarella: Low-moisture mozzarella melts beautifully, but provolone or Monterey Jack can step in as delicious alternatives.
Protein: Try shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist—it pairs incredibly well with the garlic and Cajun flavors.

Ingredients for This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the bold and creamy flavor profile of this dish. Here’s why you’ll need each one:

Rigatoni Pasta: Its ridged surface is perfect for catching all that luscious sauce.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, they soak up the Cajun seasoning beautifully when seared.
Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the flavor—spicy, smoky, and robust. It gives the chicken its signature kick.
Garlic (minced): Adds aromatic depth to the sauce and enhances the overall richness.
Butter: Helps sauté the garlic and adds a subtle richness to the base of the sauce.
Heavy Cream: The creamy backbone of the sauce that brings everything together.
Low-Moisture Mozzarella (shredded): Melts into the cream for a smooth, stretchy finish that coats every bite of pasta.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds saltiness and umami to balance the creamy elements.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken, giving it a golden crust while locking in juices.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A pop of color and freshness right before serving.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and coating them generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden and cooked through—about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant—about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping any browned bits from the pan for added flavor.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Once the cream starts to simmer, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Let the cheeses melt completely, stirring constantly to keep the sauce smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Add the drained rigatoni to the sauce and toss until well coated. Gently fold in the sliced chicken. Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of black pepper. Serve hot, and if you love spice, sprinkle a bit of extra Cajun seasoning over the top.

How Long to Cook the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

The beauty of this dish is how quickly it comes together. Here’s the general timing:

Chicken: Searing takes about 10–12 minutes total (5–6 per side).
Pasta: While the chicken cooks, the rigatoni boils for 9–11 minutes.
Sauce: The garlic mozzarella sauce takes just 5–7 minutes to prepare once the base ingredients hit the pan.
Total Cook Time: You’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish.

This makes it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something comforting without a ton of time or cleanup.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Pound the Chicken Evenly: If your chicken breasts are uneven, give them a light pounding to ensure even cooking and a consistent sear.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the rigatoni al dente. It’ll continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic in jars lacks the punch that fresh garlic gives—go fresh for a better depth of flavor.
Shred Your Own Mozzarella: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce texture. Freshly shredded melts smoother.
Deglaze the Pan: After searing the chicken, scrape up those browned bits when adding cream—they add massive flavor to the sauce.
Adjust Heat Level: Control the spice by dialing back or boosting the Cajun seasoning to your preference.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or even chives brings freshness to cut through the richness.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple recipes can trip you up if you’re not careful. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce:

Overcrowding the Pan: If you cook all the chicken at once in a small skillet, it’ll steam instead of sear. Work in batches if needed to get that golden crust.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast—just a minute or so. If it turns brown, it becomes bitter and will throw off the flavor of the entire sauce.
Using Cold Dairy: Add cold cream straight from the fridge, and it may curdle. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.
Skipping the Pasta Water: That starchy water is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce thickness and helping it cling to the pasta.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cajun seasoning can mask dryness, so use a meat thermometer if needed—165°F (74°C) is perfect.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping cheese into boiling sauce can lead to clumps. Add slowly and stir constantly for a silky finish.
Using Low-Fat Dairy: This is one of those recipes where full-fat ingredients really make a difference. Lighter versions may split or result in a watery sauce.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?

This rich, spicy pasta dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides that complement its bold flavor. Here are some great options to round out your meal:

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce on the plate.

2. Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the spicy, creamy pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli

A simple side that adds earthy flavor and a bit of crunch without stealing the show.

4. Grilled Asparagus

Its slightly bitter notes work well alongside the richness of the mozzarella sauce.

5. Tomato Cucumber Salad

Bright, juicy, and cool—ideal for balancing out the heat in the Cajun seasoning.

6. Parmesan Green Beans

Sautéed with garlic and a bit of lemon, they bring in zesty flavor without being heavy.

7. Cornbread Muffins

For a Southern-inspired twist, these slightly sweet muffins offer a great flavor contrast.

8. Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime

A simple drink option that helps cleanse the palate between bites of creamy, spicy pasta.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce store surprisingly well—just make sure to cool everything before packing it up.

Refrigerator: Transfer the pasta into an airtight container and store for up to 3–4 days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but you can easily loosen it up with a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
Freezer: While technically freezable, the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed. If you decide to freeze, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and reheat gently on the stovetop with added cream to bring the sauce back together.
Reheating: For best texture, reheat over medium-low heat on the stove, adding a bit of liquid as needed. Avoid microwaving for too long—it can dry out the chicken and make the sauce greasy.

Estimated Nutrition

Keep in mind, these numbers are approximations and may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands:

Serving Size: 1 generous bowl (about 1/4 of the recipe)
Calories: ~640 kcal
Protein: ~38g
Carbohydrates: ~48g
Fat: ~32g
Saturated Fat: ~17g
Cholesterol: ~135mg
Sodium: ~890mg
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~3g

This dish is definitely rich and indulgent—best served when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to make the sauce extra creamy?

Using full-fat heavy cream and freshly shredded low-moisture mozzarella gives the sauce that ultra-smooth, rich texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it doesn’t melt as well due to anti-caking agents.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken works great. Just toss it with Cajun seasoning and add it in after the sauce is ready. You’ll lose the seared crust, but save time.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a moderate kick, depending on your Cajun seasoning. You can make it milder by using less or a low-sodium blend—or hotter by adding cayenne or chili flakes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If you make it in advance, store the sauce and pasta separately if possible to keep the texture right when reheating.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?

No problem—just stir in a bit of reserved pasta water, milk, or more cream a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is free of gluten-containing additives.

What protein alternatives work well in this recipe?

Try shrimp, sausage, or even tofu if you’re avoiding chicken. Shrimp cooks fast and works especially well with Cajun seasoning and creamy sauces.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are excellent add-ins. Sauté them right after the chicken and before making the sauce to build flavor.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce brings together heat, richness, and a whole lot of comfort in one pan. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough for a cozy date night in. Whether you stick to the recipe or play around with proteins and add-ins, it’s one of those meals you’ll want to make again and again. Bold, creamy, and endlessly satisfying—what more could you ask for?