Introduction

This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is the perfect cozy meal for chilly nights. Packed with bold Cajun flavors and creamy cheese sauce, it’s a comforting one-pan dinner that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy.

The image shows a close-up of a black pan filled with creamy pasta. The pasta is short and spiral shaped, covered in a thick, light beige sauce. On top, there are several pieces of grilled chicken, golden brown with small black specks of seasoning. Small green herb leaves are scattered across the dish, adding a splash of color to the creamy and warm tones. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
12 oz rotini pasta (can substitute with penne, farfalle, or fusilli)
2 tablespoons olive oil (can replace with canola or vegetable oil)
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (substitute with a different spice mix for a milder taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (can use fresh minced garlic)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (omit if unavailable)
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter (can substitute with olive oil for dairy-free)
1 cup heavy cream (light cream or coconut cream can be alternatives)
1/2 cup chicken broth (vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian option)
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken 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 cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring gently. Let the sauce simmer briefly, then stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese until smooth.
Step 5: Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss gently to combine with the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, adding extra cheese on top if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite seasonal vegetables.
Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a brighter, more aromatic flavor.
Try swapping heavy cream with light cream or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning amount to control the heat level to your preference.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.

How to Serve

A close-up of a black pan filled with spiraled pasta covered in a creamy white sauce. On top are golden brown pieces of cooked chicken, seasoned and slightly crispy on the edges. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled over the dish, adding a touch of color. The creamy sauce smoothly coats the pasta spirals, giving a rich, glossy look. The black pan contrasts with the white marbled surface beneath it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with penne, farfalle, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just follow the package cooking times for the best results.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely. Replace the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also try dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it creamy and cheesy.