Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet Recipe

This recipe delivers the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and comfort. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and uses simple pantry staples. The Cajun seasoning gives it a deep, smoky flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce, making each bite indulgent and unforgettable. Plus, it all comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

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

• 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

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4 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 (for garnish)

Directions

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

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

3. Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

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

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

6. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

7. Add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and all the cheese has melted.

8. Return cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet.

9. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the cheesy Cajun garlic sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, with extra cheese on top if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be sautéed along with the garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for different protein options.

• Adjust the spice: For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning.

• Use a different pasta: Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work well if rotini isn’t available.

• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

What is Cajun seasoning made of?

Cajun seasoning typically includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store it in the refrigerator and add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat from the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of seasoning used.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta work just as well in this recipe.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning and chicken broth are gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the sauce may change slightly when reheated. For best results, freeze in individual portions and reheat with a bit of added cream or milk.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

You can substitute mozzarella with provolone, Parmesan with Romano, and cheddar with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk or evaporated milk is the best alternative.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this cheesy pasta skillet.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is the ultimate comfort meal with bold, creamy, and garlicky flavors all in one pan. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you follow the recipe as is or add your own twist, it’s satisfying, quick, and absolutely delicious.