Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce
Cheddar Garlic Chicken Rigatoni in Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, rich cheeses, and flavorful spices for a delightful family meal. This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With the perfect balance of Cajun seasoning and garlic, each bite bursts with flavor while the creamy sauce envelops the rigatoni pasta. This one-pot wonder not only satisfies hunger but also impresses with its gourmet touch. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 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
- Salt to taste
- Optional: chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente; drain.
- Toss chicken cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer while stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg