Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful Cajun spices, and creamy cheese sauce with rotini pasta. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor!

Ingredients

• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained rotini pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the cheesy sauce.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as desired.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	550
Protein	35g
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	40g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to make in one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the rotini with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.