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Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet in One Pan

A comforting one-skillet dish featuring Cajun spices and creamy cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs can provide even more flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing chicken to perfection.
For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Can substitute with penne, farfalle, or fusilli.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Increase for extra spiciness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Deepens garlic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh garlic makes everything aromatic.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Creates a rich sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with light cream or coconut milk for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Infuses flavor and moisture.
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Brings creaminess and gooey stretch.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a salty richness to the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Provides extra sharp flavor.
For the Finish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped) A burst of freshness for garnishing.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside in a colander.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken, cooking for 6–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover with foil.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the skillet's bottom.
  4. Add the Cheese: Lower heat and gradually add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly. Allow cheeses to melt into a smooth sauce, about 2–3 minutes. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet, slicing if desired. Add the drained rotini and toss everything together, allowing the pasta to coat in the creamy sauce for 2–3 minutes, rewarming chicken thoroughly.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Serve hot, enjoying the comforting warmth and rich flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 34gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 980mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Increase Cajun seasoning for bolder heat or substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

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