If you’re looking for a dish that is both creamy and packed with flavor, then the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is the perfect choice for you! This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful Cajun spices, and gooey cheese, all tossed with rotini pasta to create a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy. With just one skillet and a few simple ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
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Why Make This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. The bold Cajun flavors add a kick that makes it exciting, while the creaminess balances it out perfectly. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you! Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is sure to impress.
How to Make Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
Making this delectable dish is simple. Follow these steps to create your own Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet right at home!
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
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish) optional
Directions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-9 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring it to a simmer.
- Add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and cheesy.
- Add the cooked rotini and chicken back into the skillet.
- Toss everything until it’s well-coated in the Cajun garlic sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Garnish with parsley if you’d like.
How to Serve Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
Serve this dish hot from the skillet. It pairs well with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. The cheesy pasta and juicy chicken mix perfectly for a satisfying meal.
How to Store Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce.
Tips to Make Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Feel free to mix in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variation
If you want to change things up, try using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. You can also use different types of pasta to make it your own!
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken is a great time-saver! Just add it in after sautéing the garlic.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap the rotini pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2 months.
Now you have everything you need to prepare a mouthwatering Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet for your next meal! Enjoy!
Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 12 oz rotini pasta
Spices and Aromatics
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream You can use half-and-half for a lighter version.
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-9 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring it to a simmer.
- Add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and cheesy.
- Add the cooked rotini and chicken back into the skillet.
- Toss everything until it’s well-coated in the Cajun garlic sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Garnish with parsley if desired.
