Garlic Cajun Chicken Cheesy Rigatoni in Velveeta Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Garlic Cajun Chicken Cheesy Rigatoni in Velveeta Cream Sauce—a comforting dish that transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary meal. This creamy delight combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and a medley of cheeses for an irresistible flavor explosion. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare yet impressive enough to serve guests. With creamy textures and a touch of heat, it’s sure to become a family favorite that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until just al dente, following package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Ensure every piece is well-coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour, stirring for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly until it thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Lower heat and stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted into a smooth base. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese; stir until blended into a rich sauce. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Return cooked chicken and rigatoni to skillet and toss everything together until every bite is coated in that creamy garlic Cajun cheese sauce.
- Serve hot and melty, topping with fresh parsley or chopped chives if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg