If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with bold flavors, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that brings together tender diced chicken breast, a spicy Cajun twist, and a luscious creamy sauce that coats every rigatoni tube. The dish is easy to whip up, satisfying to eat, and has just the right amount of kick to keep things interesting. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress and quickly become a favorite.

Why Cooks Rave About It

What makes Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni stand out? For starters, the Cajun seasoning infuses the chicken and sauce with a smoky, spicy character that’s balanced perfectly by the richness of heavy cream and cheddar cheese. The rigatoni pasta, with its ridges and hollow center, captures every bit of that sauce, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s simple enough for beginners but satisfying enough for seasoned cooks. The dish also offers a beautiful mix of textures—from tender chicken to crisp bell peppers and al dente pasta—making it a delightful meal every time.

If you enjoy dishes like this, you might want to try the Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage for another flavor-packed pasta experience.

The Ingredient Lineup

12 ounces rigatoni pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold the creamy Cajun sauce.
1 pound chicken breast, diced: Tender and lean, it soaks up the spices wonderfully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and veggies.
1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic base.
1 bell pepper, diced: Adds color and a subtle crunch.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: Helps thin out the sauce and add savory flavor.
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that brings the heat and smoky notes.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for a cheesy finish.
Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning balance.
Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Large pot: For boiling the rigatoni pasta to al dente perfection.
Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the chicken, veggies, and sauce.
Knife and cutting board: For prepping chicken and vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise seasoning and liquid measurements.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce gently.
Colander: To drain the pasta.

The Method for Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the diced chicken breast and season with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add 1 cup heavy cream and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained rigatoni. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy Cajun sauce. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Fit It to Your Goals

Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce cheese to cut calories.
Add more veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
Boost the heat: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more spice.
Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
Meal prep friendly: Portion into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Things That Go Wrong

Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold the sauce well. Be sure to cook rigatoni until just al dente.
Too much Cajun seasoning can overpower the creaminess and make the dish too spicy. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust carefully.
Not stirring the sauce enough can cause cheese to clump or burn on the bottom of the pan. Stir gently and consistently.
Using low-quality chicken broth can make the sauce bland. Opt for a flavorful broth or homemade if possible.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This creamy pasta dish freezes well if you plan to save leftovers. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce after reheating.

Quick Q&A

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the sauce, penne, bowtie, or even fusilli would work beautifully in this dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though it will slightly change the flavor profile.

Is this recipe spicy?

The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate level of heat, but it’s easily adjustable. Reduce or increase the seasoning to match your spice tolerance.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and assemble the sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Keep Cooking

Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta – A tangy and creamy pasta dish perfect for a quick dinner.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Penne Chicken Sausage – Another flavorful Cajun-inspired pasta that’s bursting with bold spices and hearty proteins.
10-Minute Pasta Primavera – A fresh and vibrant vegetable-packed pasta for lighter meals.
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta – A creamy and comforting classic that’s simple and satisfying.

That’s a Wrap

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni is the kind of dish that brings warmth and excitement to your dinner table. The marriage of spicy Cajun seasoning with rich cream and cheddar cheese creates an indulgent yet approachable meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With straightforward steps and familiar ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful, hearty pasta dish ready in no time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for one, this recipe hits all the right notes—creamy, spicy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. So grab your skillet and get cooking!

Share on Pinterest