Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Garlic Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan Cheddar Sauce, a creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken and rich cheeses for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and offers a delightful twist with Cajun seasoning. The garlic-infused sauce envelops al dente rigatoni, making each bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni: Boil salted water in a large pot, add rigatoni, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and black pepper; cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Prepare the creamy cheese sauce: Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese on low heat until smooth. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted; season with salt.
- Combine everything: Return chicken and rigatoni to skillet, tossing until well coated in sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 630
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg