Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

A creamy, spicy, and cheesy one-pan meal perfect for cozy nights, combining chicken, rotini pasta, and melted cheeses in a delightful Cajun sauce.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Serving Size servings

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.

Instructions

Preparation

Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Add the cooked rotini and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Mix in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses. Stir until everything is well coated and the cheese is melted.
Top with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes