🍝 Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Velveeta Cream 🧈🌶️🧀
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with Cajun spice — this comforting pasta is packed with tender chicken, rich Velveeta sauce, and a buttery garlic kick that makes every bite unforgettable! ❤️
🔹 Ingredients:
👉 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
👉 2 tbsp olive oil
👉 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
👉 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
👉 1 tsp smoked paprika
👉 ½ tsp garlic powder
👉 4 cloves garlic, minced
👉 1 lb rigatoni pasta
👉 2 cups heavy cream
👉 ½ cup whole milk
👉 ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
👉 10 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
👉 ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
👉 ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
👉 ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
👉 Kosher salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
👉 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🔹 Directions:
◾️ ✅️ Step 1: Cook the Pasta
▶️ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
▶️ Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente.
▶️ Drain, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
◾️ ✅️ Step 2: Season & Sear the Chicken
▶️ Pat chicken dry and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
▶️ Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
▶️ Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
▶️ Remove and set aside on a plate.
◾️ ✅️ Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
▶️ In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter.
▶️ Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
◾️ ✅️ Step 4: Build the Velveeta Cream Sauce
▶️ Pour in the heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
▶️ Add Velveeta cubes, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
▶️ Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until creamy and blended.
▶️ Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).
◾️ ✅️ Step 5: Combine Everything
▶️ Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet.
▶️ Toss until everything is coated in the creamy Cajun Velveeta sauce.
▶️ If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
◾️ ✅️ Step 6: Garnish & Serve
▶️ Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
▶️ Serve hot and enjoy that rich, spicy, cheesy goodness! 🤤
🔹 Quick Details:
◾️ Prep Time: 15 minutes
◾️ Cook Time: 25 minutes
◾️ Total Time: 40 minutes
◾️ Servings: 6
◾️ Calories: ~650 kcal per serving
🔹 Chef Tips:
✅️ Add extra Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick 🌶️
✅️ Swap rigatoni for penne or fettuccine if desired 🍝
✅️ Stir in sautéed bell peppers or spinach for color and flavor 🌿
✅️ Leftovers? Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
