Craving something creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor? This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni in Cheesy Alfredo Sauce is a dreamy dinner dish that checks all the boxes: rich, spicy, comforting, and ultra-satisfying. Imagine juicy seared chicken bites glazed in garlic butter, tangled with tender rigatoni all smothered in a luscious Cajun Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary weeknight into something memorable.

Perfect for cozy nights in, this dish is indulgent without being fussy. The rigatoni’s ridged texture soaks up every bit of that cheesy, spicy sauce, while the golden-brown chicken delivers the perfect balance of heat and savory flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a hearty meal, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Rigatoni is the perfect choice here because its large, tube-like shape and ridges hold onto the Alfredo sauce so well. However, penne or ziti would also work in a pinch. The key is using a pasta shape that traps the creamy Cajun sauce and complements the juicy seared chicken.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Chicken Breast
Lean, tender chicken breast is ideal here. It cooks quickly and soaks up all the garlicky, buttery, spicy flavor from the pan.

Rigatoni Pasta
Its hearty structure and ridges make rigatoni ideal for catching every drop of sauce.

Garlic Butter
A combination of minced garlic and butter creates the flavor base for both the chicken and the sauce. Rich and aromatic!

Heavy Cream
Gives the Alfredo sauce its smooth, velvety texture and richness.

Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, adding that signature nutty, salty depth.

Cajun Seasoning
This is the star spice blend—smoky, spicy, and savory. Adjust the heat to your liking.

Italian Parsley
Fresh parsley brightens the entire dish and gives a pop of color.

Olive Oil
Used for searing the chicken to golden-brown perfection.

Salt & Pepper
Classic essentials to enhance all the other flavors in the dish.

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Let it simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in grated parmesan until melted and smooth. Add more Cajun seasoning for extra spice, if desired.

Step 5: Combine It All

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, followed by the drained rigatoni. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and a bit more parmesan, if you like. Serve hot and enjoy that cheesy, garlicky kick in every bite.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This dish is best served fresh and hot, right out of the skillet. Plate it up family-style for a comforting dinner or portion it into meal-prep containers for an indulgent work lunch.

To store, let the rigatoni cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

Crusty, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce on your plate.

Caesar Salad

A crisp romaine salad with creamy Caesar dressing adds a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasting broccoli with a little olive oil and garlic brings a great contrast of texture and flavor.

Sautéed Green Beans

A light, garlicky side of green beans keeps things balanced and adds some green to your plate.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with balsamic glaze can add a bright and refreshing touch.

Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Baked or air-fried zucchini sticks with parmesan offer a healthier, crispy side option.

Cornbread Muffins

A touch of sweetness from cornbread balances out the spicy Cajun flavors in the pasta.

Lemon-Herb Asparagus

This zesty, lightly cooked vegetable side brings a springy freshness to the table.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni, then don’t miss these other comforting and flavor-packed favorites:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a rich and hearty classic.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving something quick and satisfying.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a one-pot wonder.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a Philly twist.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti if you love ooey-gooey cheese pulls.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up more? Add veggies or bacon? I love hearing how others tweak these recipes and make them their own. Feel free to ask questions too—I’m here to help!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and savory dishes on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!