Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni: A Creamy and Flavorful Delight

Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Boil the Pasta [00:00]

• Salt a pot of boiling water and pour in a 6 ounce box of rigatoni. Allow it to boil for 10 minutes, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken [00:10]

• Take 1 chicken breast sliced in half, drizzle with oil, and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Rub in the seasonings on both sides.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken [00:30]

• In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables [00:50]

• In the same pan, add a bit more oil and add 1 diced green bell pepper, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 1/2 cup diced onions. Sauté for 4 minutes until softened.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomatoes [01:10]

• Sauté 4 minced garlic cloves for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add a 14 ounce can of diced tomatoes and season with more Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, chicken bouillon, and red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Make the Sauce [01:40]

• Add 16 ounces of heavy whipping cream, 4 ounces of cream cheese, and the reserved pasta water. Mix until smooth and allow to simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Add Cheese [02:00]

• Once thickened, stir in 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella until melted.

Step 8: Combine and Serve [02:30]

• Add the boiled rigatoni to the sauce, toss to combine, slice the cooked chicken, and place it on top. Your Cajun Chicken Rigatoni is ready to enjoy!