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Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet packs bold flavor into one easy skillet dinner Chicken is tossed with zesty Cajun spices and sautéed until golden then mixed with tender pasta and a rich triple cheese sauce that clings to every bite This meal quickly became my weeknight go to when I wanted something fast but full of flavor and comfort
My family loves the warmth and depth this dish brings to the dinner table The first time I made it the aroma brought everyone running to the kitchen and now it is a regular request
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the lean protein base for the meal Look for fresh chicken with no added solutions for the best flavor
- Rotini pasta: holds the sauce beautifully with its twists Choose durum wheat pasta for the best texture
- Olive oil: adds a fruity base and helps brown the chicken
- Cajun seasoning: this gives the dish its signature heat and depth Try to use one with a balanced mix of spices and no artificial flavors
- Garlic powder and onion powder: boost the savoriness Look for fresh smelling powder without clumps
- Salt and pepper: basic seasoning to balance the flavors
- Fresh garlic cloves: amplify the garlic punch Use plump unblemished cloves
- Butter: enriches the sauce and deepens flavor
- Heavy cream: is the foundation for a velvety sauce Opt for cream without additives for best results
- Chicken broth: adds light savory notes and thins the sauce just enough Look for low sodium to control salt
- Mozzarella cheese: for stretch and mild creaminess Buy whole milk mozzarella and shred it yourself for perfect melt
- Parmesan cheese: sharp and salty flavor that stands out Freshly grated is worth it for the taste alone
- Cheddar cheese: for sharp depth and color
- Fresh parsley: brightens everything at the end Snip just before serving for fresh aroma
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook rotini in plenty of salted, boiling water until just tender to the bite Drain well and set aside for later
- Season and Cook the Chicken:
- Toss bite sized chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated Sear in hot olive oil over medium high heat for six to seven minutes until golden on all sides and cooked through Transfer chicken to a plate so it stays juicy
- Build the Garlic Base:
- In the same skillet melt butter over medium heat then add minced fresh garlic Stir constantly for one minute so the garlic becomes fragrant but does not brown
- Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream Stir and bring to a gentle simmer so the liquid thickens slightly
- Melt in the Cheeses:
- Add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar a bit at a time stirring until the cheeses melt into a smooth creamy sauce with no lumps
- Combine and Finish:
- Return cooked rotini and chicken to the skillet Toss gently but thoroughly so every piece is coated in the cheesy Cajun sauce Let everything warm together for two to three minutes so flavors blend
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the skillet and serve the hot pasta with extra cheese if you like
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My favorite part is always the triple cheese sauce When I was first testing recipes my husband kept sneaking spoonfuls straight from the pan and I had to hide some to save enough for dinner
Storage Tips
Let the cooked skillet cool to room temperature before storing Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days Quickly reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy This dish does not freeze as well since the sauce can separate
Ingredient Substitutions
Use penne or fusilli if rotini is unavailable both hold the sauce nicely Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or use smoked gouda for extra dimension For a lighter option substitute half and half for heavy cream but the sauce will be slightly thinner
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a big green salad or steamed broccoli for a full meal Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce If you want even more Cajun flavor sprinkle extra seasoning over the top just before serving
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Cultural and Historical Context
Cajun seasoning comes from Louisiana where French Acadian settlers adapted local spices to create bold savory blends Cheesy skillet pasta is modern comfort food that brings together classic flavors in a practical one pan meal I love how this dish nods to Southern cooking but fits so easily into weeknight life
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make this dish less spicy?
Use less Cajun seasoning and opt for a mild blend. You can also skip extra black pepper for a milder flavor.
- → Can I substitute another type of pasta?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well and hold the creamy sauce similarly to rotini.
- → What cheeses can I use if I don’t have mozzarella or cheddar?
Monterey Jack, provolone, or gouda will melt smoothly and blend nicely into the sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.