Garlic Cajun Chicken Cheesy Rigatoni in Velveeta Cream Sauce
Garlic Cajun Chicken Cheesy Rigatoni in Velveeta Cream Sauce is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices with tender chicken and rich cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. The velvety sauce clings to each piece of rigatoni, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Topped with fresh herbs for a pop of color, this meal is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
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
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Cook rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, coat chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- 3. Sauté seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- 4. In the same skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic, then whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually stir in milk until thickened.
- 5. Lower heat and mix in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted. Add mozzarella and Parmesan; season to taste.
- 6. Combine chicken and rigatoni with the sauce until well coated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg