Name: Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo with Cajun Chicken Strips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Chopped parsley or dried herbs, for garnish

Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Rigatoni Alfredo with Cajun Chicken Strips, a dish that seamlessly marries rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe elevates your dining experience with tender chicken strips seasoned to perfection and enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this delightful pasta dish can be prepared in just 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal that everyone will adore.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Chopped parsley or dried herbs, for garnish

Instructions

Boil rigatoni until al dente; reserve pasta water.
Season chicken strips and sear in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and mix in heavy cream and chicken broth; whisk until smooth.
Stir in cheeses until melted and creamy, then add Italian seasoning.
Combine cooked pasta with sauce and adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
Serve plated with Cajun chicken on top and garnish as desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (about 450g)
Calories: 735
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 43g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: For added spice, increase the Cajun seasoning or include red pepper flakes. Substitute Velveeta with any mild melting cheese for a different flavor profile. To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with sautéed bell peppers or zucchini.