I love discovering simple ways to transform busy weeknight dinners into something memorable, and this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet delivers exactly that comfort. This one-skillet meal combines tender chicken pieces with bold Cajun seasoning and a rich, creamy cheese sauce that makes every bite satisfying. The beauty lies in its simplicity – everything cooks together in one pan, creating layers of flavor while keeping cleanup minimal.
My grandmother always taught me that the best meals come from the heart, not complicated techniques. That wisdom shines through in this recipe, where simple ingredients like rotini pasta, chicken, and three types of cheese create pure comfort food magic. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of warmth and spice, while the creamy garlic sauce brings everything together in perfect harmony. Your family will be asking for seconds before they finish their first plate! Time to cook!
Ingredients for Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
In my experience, the key to this recipe’s success lies in using fresh, quality ingredients that build layers of flavor. I always recommend using freshly minced garlic instead of the pre-minced variety – it makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 12 oz rotini pasta – I prefer the spiral shape because it holds the sauce beautifully
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – My go-to is a salt-free blend to control sodium levels
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – I recommend using fresh for maximum flavor
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream – In my experience, this creates the richest sauce
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – I usually buy blocks and shred them myself for better melting
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Pro tip: let cheese come to room temperature for smoother melting
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend having all your ingredients prepped before starting, as this recipe moves quickly once you begin cooking.
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and start cooking the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
Step 3: Add seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant – watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around edges), then gradually add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until smooth and melted.
Step 6: Return cooked rotini and chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly in the cheesy Cajun garlic sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors. Add reserved pasta water if sauce seems too thick. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
The bold flavors in this skillet pair beautifully with fresh, crisp accompaniments that balance the richness.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes: While this makes a complete meal on its own, these roasted potatoes make an excellent side for extra hearty appetites.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and light vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds fresh vegetables to the meal.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: For pasta lovers, this complementary dish works wonderfully for larger gatherings or meal prep variety.
Steamed Broccoli: The mild, slightly bitter notes of broccoli complement the spicy Cajun flavors while adding important nutrients and fiber.
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Perfect as a starter course that complements the cheese and garlic flavors in the main dish.
Crusty French Bread: A hearty bread option that offers satisfying texture and neutral flavor to balance the intensely seasoned skillet.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. I recommend adding a splash of milk or chicken broth when reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
For reheating, I prefer using a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. The microwave works too – just heat in 30-second intervals to prevent the cheese from separating.
Pro tip: This recipe doubles easily for meal prep or feeding a crowd, and the flavors actually develop and improve after a day in the fridge, making it perfect for busy families looking for satisfying leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, farfalle, or fusilli work wonderfully. Choose shapes with curves or ridges that hold the cheese sauce well.
How can I make this recipe less spicy?
Reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon or choose a mild blend. You can also add an extra ½ cup of cream to mellow the heat.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Half-and-half works, or use milk with a tablespoon of flour whisked in for better thickness.
Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and start cooking the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Add seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant – watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around edges), then gradually add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses, stirring constantly until smooth and melted.
- Return cooked rotini and chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly in the cheesy Cajun garlic sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors. Add reserved pasta water if sauce seems too thick. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
