Description

This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a creamy, flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with al dente rotini pasta, smothered in a rich blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, cheesy dinner without fuss and extra cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Seasoning

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta

12 oz rotini pasta

Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon 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

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden. Pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream, stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then gradually add the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely and form a smooth, creamy sauce.
Combine & simmer: Return the cooked rotini pasta and chicken to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the cheesy Cajun garlic sauce. Allow the skillet to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot for a creamy, comforting meal.

Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
You can substitute rotini with other short pasta like penne or fusilli if preferred.
If you want a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheesy Cajun Chicken, Garlic Chicken Pasta, Rotini Skillet, One Pan Dinner, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Cajun Chicken Recipe