Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Parmesan
Warm up your evenings with this creamy, spicy Cajun chicken rotini, packed with bold flavors and cheesy goodness. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pasta Pot
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
- Garlic Press
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil 12 oz of rotini in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water, and set aside.
- Toss chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth, stirring well. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in 1 1/2 cups mozzarella and 1/2 cup Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin.
- Toss in cooked pasta and chicken, coating evenly with sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot!
Notes
Customize this dish with swaps like shrimp for chicken or gluten-free pasta. Adjust Cajun seasoning for less spice, and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
