If you love pasta with bold flavors and creamy richness, this Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo will steal your heart—and your appetite. Think: tender chicken with a zesty Cajun kick, golden and crisp on the outside, paired with al dente rigatoni smothered in a cheesy, garlicky Alfredo sauce that’s elevated with melty mozzarella. It’s a cozy, satisfying dinner that tastes like it came from a high-end Italian-Creole fusion bistro.

This recipe brings together the smoky spices of Cajun cooking with the indulgent smoothness of Italian Alfredo, creating a powerhouse dish that’s ready to wow. Whether it’s for Sunday dinner, a weeknight treat, or a dish to impress your guests—this one delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Incredible flavor fusion: Smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning meets ultra-creamy Alfredo.
Hearty and comforting: Perfect for when you want something cozy, rich, and satisfying.
Ready in under an hour: Despite its luxurious flavor, it’s totally weeknight-friendly.
Customizable heat: You control how spicy it gets—mild or fiery!

What Makes the Alfredo Sauce So Special?

The magic is in the mozzarella. Traditional Alfredo is rich with Parmesan, but we’re giving it a luscious twist with shredded mozzarella for that irresistible melty stretch. Add in heavy cream, butter, garlic, and herbs, and you’ve got a sauce that clings to every piece of pasta like a warm hug. It’s creamy without being overly heavy, with just enough Cajun heat to keep things interesting.

Ingredients for the Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

Every ingredient adds bold flavor, creamy texture, or satisfying bite.

Chicken breasts or thighs: The protein star, seasoned with Cajun spices and pan-seared to perfection.
Rigatoni pasta: Its ridges hold onto that creamy sauce like a champ.
Cajun seasoning: Brings the smoky, spicy heat that gives this dish its kick.
Olive oil and butter: For searing the chicken and starting the base of the Alfredo.
Garlic: Adds bold, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
Heavy cream: Creates the smooth and rich base of the Alfredo.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts into the sauce for that stretchy, creamy texture.
Parmesan cheese: Balances with sharp, salty notes.
Fresh parsley: Adds color and a burst of freshness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra spicy edge if you love heat.

How To Make the Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

It’s easier than you think—just follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Rub chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until golden on both sides and fully cooked. Remove, rest for 5 minutes, then slice.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth. Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for extra spice.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the Alfredo sauce. Add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed. Stir in chopped parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with more parsley and Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve and Store Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

This dish feeds 4 hungry people generously, making it ideal for family dinners, cozy date nights, or leftovers that you’ll actually look forward to.

Serve it hot and fresh right after tossing the pasta in the Alfredo sauce. Make sure to plate the sliced Cajun chicken on top for a gorgeous presentation and easier serving.

To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce.

What to Serve With Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni?

Round out your meal with some bright, crisp, and contrasting side dishes.

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

Because every creamy pasta needs something to swipe through the sauce.

Simple Arugula or Caesar Salad

A fresh and peppery salad helps balance the richness.

Roasted Broccoli

The slight char and crunch make a great texture contrast.

Grilled Asparagus

Light and flavorful—perfectly complements the creamy rigatoni.

Creamy Polenta (for extra comfort)

If you want to double up on cozy, serve a small scoop alongside.

Lemon-Butter Green Beans

A bright, zesty bite that cuts through the heaviness beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Just slice or shred it and heat it up in the Cajun seasoning before adding to the pasta.

2. Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?
It has a kick, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount or using a mild blend.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare everything and store the chicken and pasta separately. Reheat gently and toss together when ready to serve.

4. Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?
Yes, try Monterey Jack or Fontina for similar meltiness, or use all Parmesan for a sharper bite.

5. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Cajun seasoning and cheeses are certified gluten-free.

Save This Pin For Later

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

What kind of pasta did you use? Did you crank up the spice? Share your twist in the comments—let’s swap ideas!

Hungry for more creamy, comforting meals? Explore bold and beautiful flavors on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and take your weeknight dinners to the next level.

Conclusion

Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is the kind of dish that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and just a bit spicy—the perfect combination for a dinner that feels special yet simple.

From the golden Cajun chicken to the velvety sauce and perfectly coated rigatoni, every bite is a little celebration. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this pasta is sure to make your comfort food list on repeat.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Creamy Mozzarella Alfredo is the ultimate weeknight comfort dish—rich, creamy, and packed with smoky heat. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken rests atop a bed of al dente rigatoni tossed in a silky Alfredo sauce made with melty mozzarella and garlic. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, bold pasta recipes, or simply crave something satisfying and delicious, this easy recipe will be your new go-to.

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until golden and fully cooked. Rest and slice.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

4. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth.

5. Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes if desired.

6. Toss in cooked pasta and stir to coat. Add pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

7. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning to taste.

8. Plate the creamy rigatoni and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with more parsley and cheese.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut. Just heat it up with Cajun spices before adding.

Add spinach or mushrooms to the Alfredo for extra veggies and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun-Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 690
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 860mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: spicy pasta, creamy alfredo, Cajun chicken pasta, comfort food, quick dinner