Name: Cajun Chicken Rigatoni
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni pasta – The pasta serves as a sturdy base for holding the creamy sauce and enhancing the overall texture of the dish.; 1 lb chicken breast – Boneless and skinless, the chicken provides protein and absorbs the rich spices.; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – A blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder that adds warmth and depth to the dish.; 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and helping to develop a rich flavor.; 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and aroma to the sauce.; 3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory note.; 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious, decadent sauce that pulls everything together.; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty flavor and richness to the sauce.; Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the overall taste of the dish.; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a pop of color and herbaceous notes once served.

Description

Enjoy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni, a flavorful pasta dish with spiced chicken in a creamy sauce. A delicious and satisfying main dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb rigatoni pasta – The pasta serves as a sturdy base for holding the creamy sauce and enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
1 lb chicken breast – Boneless and skinless, the chicken provides protein and absorbs the rich spices.
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – A blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder that adds warmth and depth to the dish.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and helping to develop a rich flavor.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and aroma to the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory note.
1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious, decadent sauce that pulls everything together.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty flavor and richness to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a pop of color and herbaceous notes once served.

Instructions

Prepare the Rigatoni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 1 lb of rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.
Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, take 1 lb of chicken breast and season it with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Ensure the chicken is coated well with the spices for maximum flavor.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 medium diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Mixture: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked rigatoni and sliced chicken to the sauce in the skillet, stirring to ensure everything is coated with the creamy mixture. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Serve: Dish out the Cajun Chicken Rigatoni onto plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy the meal warm, savoring the rich flavors!