Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

Here’s a Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet recipe — creamy, spicy, cheesy, and all made in one skillet for easy cleanup and big flavor. 🍗🧄🧀🔥

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet

Ingredients:

Chicken & Seasoning:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

Aromatics & Veggies:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped

• Optional: 1 cup mushrooms or spinach

Pasta & Sauce:

• 2 cups dry rotini pasta

• 2 ½ cups chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped parsley or green onions

• Crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Cook Chicken:

   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.

   • Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

   • Sear chicken pieces until golden and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Veggies:

   • In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed.

   • Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).

3. Simmer Pasta:

   • Add uncooked rotini to the skillet.

   • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

   • Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Make It Cheesy:

   • Stir in heavy cream.

   • Add cooked chicken back to the skillet.

   • Sprinkle in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and creamy.

5. Finish & Serve:

   • Taste and adjust seasoning (add more Cajun spice or a splash of hot sauce if desired).

   • Garnish with parsley or green onions.

   • Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

• Spicy Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce depending on your heat preference.

• Protein Swaps: Try shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for variety.

• Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of cream or broth.