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Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet for Cozy Nights

A creamy one-pan wonder featuring cheesy goodness and a spicy kick perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs for added flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Vegetable oil works as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust amount to taste.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini pasta Can use other pasta shapes like penne or farfalle.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Using roasted garlic will provide a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Can swap with light cream or dairy-free alternatives.
  • 1 cup Chicken broth Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Can try Gouda or Monterey Jack.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.
  • 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese Consider dairy-free options if needed.
Finishing Touches
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Using fresh onions can enhance the taste.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Use Himalayan salt or freshly cracked pepper for better flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (for garnish) Chives or green onions can also be used.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, add to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the Cheeses: Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar into the creamy sauce and mix until melted. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Combine & Simmer: Return cooked chicken and drained rotini to the skillet, fold gently until well coated in sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley and additional cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; will keep frozen for up to 2 months.

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