Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is the perfect combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, and al dente rotini pasta. The dish is a comforting, flavorful one-pan wonder that’s quick to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this indulgent dish has everything you crave—spices, creaminess, and loads of cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with bold Cajun flavors, this skillet meal offers a great balance of spice and creaminess. The juicy chicken, seasoned with Cajun spices, pairs perfectly with the rich, velvety cheese sauce. The rotini pasta soaks up the sauce, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s a quick and indulgent dinner that doesn’t require too much effort but delivers on taste!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks

• 12 oz rotini pasta

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, melt butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.

• Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Add the Cheese:

• Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine:

• Add the cooked rotini and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated in the cheesy Cajun garlic sauce.

• Let the dish simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

6. Serve:

• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. For extra cheesiness, you can sprinkle more cheese on top before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the skillet for extra flavor and texture.

• Spicy Kick: If you love spice, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

• Different Pasta: Swap the rotini for penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you prefer.

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream, broth, and cheese substitutes to make this dish dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: While this dish can be frozen, the creamy sauce may change in texture. To freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu or more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can add a bit more cheese, or whisk in a small amount of cornstarch or flour mixed with water to thicken it.

5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Assemble everything and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add more Cajun seasoning or sprinkle some red pepper flakes to enhance the heat.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap the cheeses in this recipe. Gouda, provolone, or even a bit of blue cheese would give a different but delicious flavor.

8. Can I add shrimp to this dish?

Yes, shrimp would pair wonderfully with this recipe. Simply sauté the shrimp and add it along with the chicken or replace the chicken entirely with shrimp.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, ensure the heat is low when adding the cream and cheese, and stir constantly. It’s also best to use room-temperature cream and cheese.

10. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the Cajun seasoning and other ingredients are free from gluten.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a flavorful and indulgent dish that combines the best of Cajun seasoning with creamy cheese and tender chicken. The rotini pasta is perfectly coated in the rich, cheesy sauce, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress guests, this skillet dish is sure to please!

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