Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken

This cheesy Cajun garlic chicken rotini skillet is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet full of flavor. It brings together tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and a touch of Cajun spice that makes every bite satisfying without a lot of fuss.

I whipped this up after a spontaneous craving for something cheesy with a little heat and it quickly became a family favorite for casual dinners.

Ingredients

• One pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: cut into chunks for quick, even cooking
• Rotini pasta: because its spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce nicely
• Olive oil: for searing the chicken to a golden brown and adding depth
• Cajun seasoning: delivers smoky, spicy layers choose a balanced blend or make your own for best results
• Garlic powder and onion powder: boost savory flavor without overpowering
• Four cloves of minced garlic: provide fresh aroma and rich garlicky punch
• Butter: melts into the sauce to add richness and smooth texture
• Heavy cream: creates a luscious base for the cheese sauce go for full fat for maximum creaminess
• Chicken broth: adds depth and balances the richness of cream
• Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses: combine meltiness, sharpness, and gooey texture
• Fresh parsley: chopped on top adds brightness and color
• Choosing fresh parsley and quality cheeses: makes a big flavor difference in the final dish

Instructions

Cook Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a steady boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes depending on package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside so it does not overcook later.

Cook Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the chicken chunks evenly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the chicken to brown beautifully and cook through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.

Make Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted and bubbling slightly, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant and golden but not burnt. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently as you bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower heat if needed to avoid boiling over. Gradually stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese until thoroughly melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Combine:

Return the drained pasta and cooked chicken into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss carefully to coat everything evenly. Let the skillet simmer over medium heat for an additional two to three minutes, stirring now and then to thicken the sauce and warm all ingredients through.

Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh herbal note and a pop of green. Add extra cheese on top if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

I remember making this one for my kids after a long day at school and their smiles said it all.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Ingredient swaps

You can swap rotini for penne or fusilli if preferred. Chicken thighs work well if you like darker meat and retain moisture better. Use olive oil or avocado oil as your cooking fat. Low-fat cream or half and half can reduce calories but will make the sauce less rich.

Serving ideas

Pair this skillet dinner with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A crusty bread or garlic baguette also complements the creamy texture without competing with the spices.

This dish combines creamy texture with a spicy Cajun kick for a comforting meal that is simple yet impressive.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and avoid overcooking. Cooking until golden and just done helps keep it juicy.

→ Can I use a different pasta instead of rotini?

Yes, other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work well to hold the creamy sauce.

→ How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?

The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to moderate heat, which can be adjusted to taste or substituted with milder spices if preferred.

→ What’s the best way to melt the cheese smoothly into the sauce?

Stir the cheeses in gradually over medium heat to ensure a creamy, smooth texture without clumping.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be made in advance and reheated gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.