Cajun Chicken Rigatoni

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

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Introduction

Creamy, cheesy, spicy, and loaded with flavor — Cajun Chicken Rigatoni in Velveeta Garlic Sauce is a soul-satisfying pasta dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight and indulgent enough for comfort-food cravings. Tender Cajun-spiced chicken is tossed with al dente rigatoni and smothered in a rich garlic cheese sauce made with Velveeta. It’s velvety, bold, and delicious.

Whether you’re looking for something new to spice up pasta night or want to impress guests with a quick but memorable dinner, this one-skillet dish is a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta

• 2 tbsp butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)

• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup baby spinach or kale

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

• Sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers

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Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot (for pasta)

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Knife and cutting board

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

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Instructions

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for loosening the sauce later if needed.

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Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Velveeta Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.

2. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not let it burn).

3. Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Stir in cubed Velveeta and Parmesan, continuing to stir until completely melted and smooth.

5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce.

2. Add the cooked rigatoni and gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated.

3. If you’re adding spinach or other optional ingredients, stir them in now and cook for 1–2 more minutes until warmed through or wilted.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

2. Serve hot, with garlic bread or a crisp green salad on the side.

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Tips for Success

• Velveeta Substitute: If you prefer not to use Velveeta, replace it with 1 cup of shredded cheddar or American cheese and add a bit more milk to help it melt smoothly.

• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

• Protein Variations: Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rigatoni and double-check your Cajun seasoning for gluten-containing additives.

• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk.

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Homemade Cajun Seasoning (Optional)

Mix the following in a small bowl:

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

• 1/4 tsp dried oregano

• 1/4 tsp thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

Store in a jar and use in other dishes like blackened fish, Cajun fries, or grilled veggies.

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Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

Note: Nutritional info will vary depending on portion size and added ingredients.