When creamy Alfredo meets bold Cajun spices, something magical happens. This Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is the kind of meal that comforts your soul and ignites your tastebuds all at once. The richness of the Alfredo sauce, laced with Italian herbs, wraps itself around the ridges of rigatoni while tender, spiced Cajun chicken steals the spotlight in every bite.

It’s a dish you make when you want to impress, whether it’s a weeknight dinner that feels like a celebration or you’re feeding a hungry crowd. This pasta brings together savory, spicy, creamy, and herby all in one delicious forkful. It’s indulgent, but in the best way—and totally worth every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

This isn’t your average Alfredo pasta. The Cajun chicken packs a spicy punch that balances the luscious creaminess of the Alfredo. The Italian herbs add depth and character, giving the sauce a restaurant-style flavor. Rigatoni is the ideal pasta for holding onto the sauce and chunks of chicken, making every bite satisfying. It also comes together quickly, which means you can treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is the go-to here for a reason. Its tube shape and ridges catch every drop of Alfredo, and it holds up beautifully with hearty proteins like Cajun chicken. That said, if you have penne or even fettuccine on hand, those can work too—just know you might be sacrificing a bit of the sauce-hugging power that rigatoni brings to the table.

Ingredients for the Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

This pasta dish uses straightforward ingredients, but each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor. From the bold Cajun spices to the velvety Alfredo and aromatic herbs, everything blends beautifully to create a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet.

Rigatoni pasta
Chicken breasts
Cajun seasoning
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic cloves
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper

Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken 2

How To Make the Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into strips and coating them generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and reserve some of the pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked rigatoni to the Alfredo sauce and toss until evenly coated. Add the Cajun chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine everything. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, herby, spicy bite.

How to Serve and Store Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken

This dish is best served hot, right off the stove when the Alfredo is at its creamiest and the chicken is perfectly juicy. It makes enough to generously feed four people, though you might find yourself going back for seconds. Serve it straight from the skillet or plate it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmesan for a polished presentation.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce without overcooking the pasta or drying out the chicken.

What to Serve With Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, golden garlic bread is the perfect partner to scoop up extra sauce and add some toasty contrast.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with a lemony vinaigrette cuts through the richness and keeps things balanced.

Roasted Broccoli

Slightly charred florets bring a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy Alfredo.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a cool, tangy contrast that refreshes the palate.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These caramelized bites of veggie goodness bring a sweet-tart element that enhances the spicy Cajun seasoning.

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Tender asparagus with a crispy parmesan coating complements the herb-forward Alfredo.

Lemon Butter Zucchini

Quick-sautéed zucchini with lemon butter adds a delicate citrus note that wakes up the dish.

Italian-Style Antipasto Plate

A small platter of olives, salami, marinated artichokes, and provolone sets the tone for an indulgent Italian-inspired meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas Bursting with Flavor?

If you love this Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken, you’re going to fall hard for these other pasta favorites from Janet Dishes:

• One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni when you want comfort in a single pan.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a spicy and savory combo that comes together fast.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a vegetarian twist with tons of flavor.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you crave a cozy, cheesy weeknight meal.
• Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for a protein-packed creamy alternative.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice the chicken up more? Try a different pasta shape? Did you go extra cheesy?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and eat happier.

Explore beautifully curated creamy, spicy, and protein-packed meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to favorites!

Conclusion

Rigatoni in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is the kind of dish that earns a spot in your regular dinner rotation. It’s creamy, flavorful, a little spicy, and downright irresistible. With just a handful of ingredients and a skillet, you can bring restaurant-quality pasta straight to your table—no reservations needed.