Go Back

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

A warm and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, creamy sauces, and zesty Cajun spices, all prepared in one pan.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Substitute with chicken thighs if desired.
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Can substitute with penne, farfalle, or fusilli.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for cooking the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning Adjust according to spice tolerance.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic is also a good option.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Can be omitted if not desired.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Margarine or dairy-free options can be used.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Consider light cream or coconut milk as alternatives.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Substitutes can include Gouda or Monterey Jack.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated Pecorino Romano can also be substituted.
  • ½ cup Cheddar Cheese Any melty cheese will work.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Chives or cilantro can be used as alternatives.

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning.
  3. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter. Let it melt and then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add the Cheese: Slowly add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and rotini pasta back to the skillet. Mix everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  7. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving for an added burst of flavor and color.
  8. Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm. Serve it right from the skillet for a cozy meal.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last about 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy sauce. Can freeze for up to 2 months.