Description
Cajun Chicken Bites with Creamy Rigatoni is a bold, flavorful dish featuring tender, spiced chicken bites in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked rigatoni. It’s quick to prepare, deeply satisfying, and easily customizable—ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2–3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain. -
Season and Cook the Chicken
Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. -
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and gently simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken. -
Add Parmesan and Chicken
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. -
Combine with Pasta
Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. -
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes