Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, indulgent dish that combines tender chicken and hearty rigatoni pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce. This delightful recipe bursts with flavor from garlic and Cajun seasoning, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With just 30 minutes of preparation time, you can impress your family and friends with this comforting meal that feels gourmet yet is incredibly easy to make. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or warm garlic bread to create an unforgettable dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- Salt to taste
- Optional: chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the seasoned chicken until golden brown and cooked through (6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer while stirring constantly.
- Lower the heat and stir in Parmesan and cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken; toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 93mg