Craving something creamy, spicy, and irresistibly cheesy? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. The juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, paired with tender rigatoni and smothered in a garlicky, cheesy mozzarella sauce, makes each bite completely crave-worthy.

Perfect for cozy dinners, casual gatherings, or meal-prep champions, this dish hits that golden balance between indulgent and practical. Whether you’re looking to spice up pasta night or want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this flavorful fusion delivers on every level.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get this dish just right, you’ll want to prep with the following essentials:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: For achieving that perfect sear on the Cajun chicken, locking in juicy flavor.
Large Pot: Ideal for boiling the rigatoni evenly without overcrowding.
Oven-Safe Baking Dish: Necessary for assembling and baking the dish to get that gooey, golden top layer of mozzarella.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For dicing the chicken cleanly and quickly.
Silicone Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Great for mixing the sauce and pasta gently to avoid breaking the rigatoni.
Grater: Freshly grated mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.

Having the right tools on hand ensures both efficiency and quality—think of them as your kitchen allies in building flavor and texture.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Rigatoni Pasta: The sturdy, ridged shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-rich, it becomes tender and juicy with a Cajun seasoning rub.
Cajun Seasoning: Adds that bold, spicy flavor base that defines the dish.
Garlic (minced): Aromatic and savory, it deepens the sauce’s flavor.
Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety texture for the sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melty, stretchy, and the ultimate topping that blankets the rigatoni.
Parmesan Cheese: Boosts the cheesy depth and adds a slight salty finish.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and infusing extra richness.
Butter: Adds flavor and silkiness to the garlic sauce.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning both chicken and sauce layers.
Parsley (optional garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Boil and Prep the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until just al dente, then drain and set aside. Toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Rub chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear both sides until golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from heat, rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella, whisking until smooth and melted.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, gently stirring to coat every piece. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Top with the sliced chicken and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the top.

Step 6: Broil for Golden Perfection

Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Best Way to Serve and Store This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Serve this dish piping hot straight from the oven, with that cheese pull moment in full effect. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a final pop of color and freshness.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in short intervals to avoid drying out the pasta. If needed, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or stovetop with a little added cream to bring back that creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for their lean texture and ability to absorb the Cajun seasoning. However, chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While rigatoni holds the sauce well, penne, ziti, or even shells would work if you prefer or have them on hand.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild to moderate kick depending on your Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the heat by using less seasoning or opting for a low-spice blend.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish, cover, and refrigerate it up to a day in advance. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding 5–10 extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free rigatoni and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with it?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed broccoli are all excellent sides that round out the meal without overpowering the bold flavors.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re all about bold flavors and comforting pasta bakes, you’ll love what’s cooking here at LadyPlate.

The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe brings a spicy, cheesy twist to a traditional favorite. Or for something a little more classic, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti delivers that rich, creamy payoff in every bite.

Feeling adventurous? Dive into the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta for another smoky-spicy flavor bomb. Craving even more decadence? The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (a stovetop version of today’s bake) might be your next obsession.

Looking for a creamy-cheesy combo with a twist? Don’t skip the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni—a close cousin to today’s rigatoni recipe with a meaty punch.

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rigatoni with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a rich and comforting pasta dish loaded with bold Cajun spice, juicy chicken, and a silky garlic cream sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and baked until golden, it’s the perfect crowd-pleasing dinner.

Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil.

2. Rub chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil until golden and fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and simmer.

4. Stir in Parmesan and half the mozzarella. Whisk until smooth.

5. Add pasta into the sauce and mix until fully coated. Season to taste.

6. Transfer pasta to a baking dish. Top with sliced chicken and the remaining mozzarella.

7. Broil 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

Let the cooked chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Use freshly grated mozzarella for best melt and stretch.

Broil with the oven door slightly open for better browning control.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Pasta Bake
Method: Baked, Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 760
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 580 mg
Fat: 42 g
Saturated Fat: 22 g
Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 58 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 43 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg

Keywords: creamy cajun pasta, chicken rigatoni, mozzarella bake