Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the contents of my skillet, the aroma of Cajun spices danced through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Southern bistro. This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights when I crave both comfort and deliciousness. With its creamy sauce enveloping the rotini, this dish comes together quickly in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze while still impressing family or friends. Plus, the delightful combination of cheese and spice adds an irresistible twist to your dinner routine. Ready to discover how you can whip up this flavorful meal in no time? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity, This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a one-pan wonder, streamlining your weeknight cooking without sacrificing flavor. Irresistible Flavor, The creamy, spicy sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and rotini, ensuring every bite unfolds a delightful taste experience. Quick Preparation, Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish won’t keep you hovering in the kitchen! Versatile Ingredients, Feel free to swap in veggies or different types of cheese like Gouda for a personal touch! Crowd Pleaser, Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this meal is guaranteed to impress everyone at your table! Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Ingredients • Dive into the flavors of this creamy, dreamy dish with the essentials below! For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that can be swapped for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier flavor. Olive Oil – Helps in sautéing the chicken; feel free to substitute with vegetable or canola oil for a different taste. Cajun Seasoning – Adds that necessary kick; elevate the spice with extra if you crave more heat! Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavoring; using freshly cracked pepper enhances the seasoning experience. For the Pasta Rotini Pasta (12 oz) – The sturdy base of the dish; alternatives include penne or fusilli, just adjust cook time accordingly. For the Sauce Butter – Richness enhancer in the sauce; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Brings a deep aromatic flavor; fresh is best, but garlic paste works in a pinch! Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates the creamy base; for lighter versions, use light cream or even coconut milk. Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Infuses flavor into the sauce; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian twist. Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Boosts the garlic flavor; fresh garlic adds an even prettier punch! Onion Powder (½ teaspoon) – Adds sweetness and depth; can be skipped if you’re not a fan. For the Cheese Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Provides that lovely creaminess; consider Gouda or Monterey Jack for fun variations. Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Adds a sharper flavor that complements the sauce beautifully; for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well. Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded) – Contributes richness; using sharp cheddar will make those cheesy notes pop! For Garnish Fresh Parsley – Adds a burst of freshness and color; chives or basil are delightful alternatives to switch things up. Creating this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s about savoring moments. Enjoy! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Recipe Step 1: Cook Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, allowing it to steam slightly while you prepare the rest of the dish. Step 2: Cook Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Step 3: Make Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Step 4: Incorporate Cheeses As the sauce simmers, gradually stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of grated parmesan, and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy in texture. This cheesy sauce will provide the perfect coating for the chicken and pasta. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Return the cooked chicken and the drained rotini to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine everything, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the rich sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully and heat through. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet with freshly chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delightful dish! Expert Tips for Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Monitor Heat: Keep the heat at medium; cooking too high can break the creamy sauce, leading to unwanted separation. Choose Chicken Wisely: Boneless skinless chicken breasts work best for tenderness; chicken thighs can provide extra flavor and juiciness. Adjust Spice Level: Taste and adjust the Cajun seasoning to your family’s heat preference, especially if serving kids; start with less and add more if desired. Cook Pasta Just Right: Make sure to cook the rotini to al dente to avoid mushiness when mixing it with the creamy sauce later in the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet recipe. Garnish with Freshness: Don’t skip the parsley! A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a burst of color and freshness that enhances the dish’s overall flavor. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix or swap cheeses, like Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist on your classic Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet. What to Serve with Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet A flavorful experience awaits when you complement this creamy dish with delicious sides that elevate your meal. Garlic Bread: The crispy and buttery texture of garlic bread adds a delightful crunch while soaking up the creamy sauce—perfect for a comforting dinner. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the rotini. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant vegetable brings a pop of color and nutritious crunch, making your plate more colorful and wholesome. Roasted Asparagus: With its slightly nutty flavor, roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with creamy dishes, adding an elegant twist to your meal. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn can complement the Cajun flavors with a touch of sweetness—a fun finger food that everyone loves! Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enhances the dish’s flavors, adding depth and richness to your dining experience. Cheesecake: For dessert, a slice of rich cheesecake provides a sweet finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory main dish, leaving everyone satisfied. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the creamy texture and flavors of the dish. Freezer: Freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to revive the creamy sauce. Airtight Storage: Ensure your storage container is airtight to prevent any freezer burn, keeping your Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet flavorful and delicious! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the rotini pasta and chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy cheese sauce ahead of time; let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure everything is thoroughly cooled before storage to prevent moisture buildup. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply reheat the chicken and pasta while gently warming the sauce on the stove. Combine them, toss to coat, and savor the same delicious flavors with minimal effort! Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Variations Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these delicious twists on the classic recipe! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegan butter for a comforting, dairy-free version. Gluten-Free: Swap rotini for gluten-free pasta variants like brown rice or chickpea pasta to enjoy the dish without the gluten. Vegetarian: Replace chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vibrant meatless meal. Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture for extra excitement. Cheesy Delight: Boost flavor by incorporating a blend of cheeses such as Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique creamy profile. Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the sauce for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish’s flavor. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder to introduce a delicious smoky dimension that pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices. Protein Variety: Experiment with shrimp or sausage for a coastal flair that complements this rich, creamy dish. Feel encouraged to mix and match these variations; they can transform your meal into something uniquely yours! If you’re craving more cheesy goodness, you might enjoy recipes like Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Cajun Chicken Pasta. Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Recipe FAQs What is the best way to choose ripe chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting chicken for this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet, look for pieces that are firm and pink in color, with no foul odors. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture. Always check the sell-by date to ensure freshness. How long can I store leftovers in the fridge? You can store leftovers of your Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it. When reheating, cook gently over low heat to maintain the creamy sauce’s luscious texture! Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze your Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet! First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it into a freezer-safe airtight container, making sure to leave a little space for expanding as it freezes. It can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to retain its creaminess. What should I do if the sauce separates after cooking? If your sauce separates, don’t worry! It happens sometimes. To fix this, simply add a splash of warm chicken broth or heavy cream while gently stirring over low heat. This helps emulsify the oils back into the sauce. Additionally, next time, keep your cooking temperature at medium to help prevent separation. Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? Yes, definitely! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies, check the specific cheeses used, as they can contain milk. For a dairy-free option, substitute with vegan alternatives like cashew cream or nutritional yeast. You can also replace the chicken with grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version that’s equally delicious! Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Recipe You’ll Love This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Recipe brings comfort and deliciousness to your dinner table with ease. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: SouthernCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can be swapped for chicken thighs2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with vegetable or canola oil if desired2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust to tasteto taste Saltto taste Pepper Freshly cracked is preferredFor the Pasta12 oz Rotini Pasta Alternatives include penne or fusilliFor the Sauce1 tablespoon Butter Use vegan butter for dairy-free option4 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh is best1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with light cream or coconut milk for lighter versions½ cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian option1 teaspoon Garlic Powder½ teaspoon Onion Powder Can be skipped if not preferredFor the Cheese1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Shredded, consider Gouda or Monterey Jack for variations½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated½ cup Cheddar Cheese Shredded, using sharp cheddar for stronger flavorFor Garnishto taste Fresh Parsley Can substitute with chives or basil Equipment SkilletPotColander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.Gradually stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of grated parmesan, and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy in texture.Return the cooked chicken and the drained rotini to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine everything, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the rich sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2–3 minutes.Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet with freshly chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
