Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and only requires one pan, which means less cleanup! The creamy, cheesy sauce is perfectly balanced with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and garlic, making every bite burst with flavor. The rotini pasta captures the sauce in every twist, ensuring that you get a taste of the richness in every mouthful. Plus, the addition of chicken makes it a well-rounded meal, perfect for feeding your family or guests.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

• 12 oz rotini pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer again. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

6. Lower the heat and add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

7. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine everything evenly, ensuring the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

• Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of rotini?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you prefer.

2. Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Skinless chicken thighs will work perfectly and provide a slightly richer flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and pasta in advance to save time when you cook.

4. How can I make this dish less spicy?

You can reduce the Cajun seasoning to suit your preferences or use a milder seasoning blend.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with other cheeses like gouda, cheddar, or even a mix of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use whole milk, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

While it's possible to freeze the dish, the cream-based sauce may change in texture after thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make it a more balanced meal.

9. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).

10. Can I make this dish in advance and reheat it?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time, but the sauce may thicken once refrigerated. Reheat it gently with a bit of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It combines the richness of cheese with the zesty punch of Cajun seasoning, creating a flavorful meal that’s quick, easy, and sure to be a hit. Whether you make it as is or customize it to your liking, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen!