ULTIMATE CHEESY CAJUN CHICKEN ROTINI SKILLET

I still remember the first time I tried a really good Cajun dish; it was at a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant during a family road trip, and the bold flavors just exploded in my mouth, inspiring countless kitchen experiments to recapture that magic – which ultimately led to this incredibly satisfying Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet. Get ready, because you’re about to experience a flavor sensation that’s both comforting and exciting, and I promise you’ll nail it on the first try!

Let’s Talk Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet: Your New Weeknight Hero

Okay, friend, let’s dive into what makes this Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet a total winner. We’re talking about tender chicken, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, a creamy, cheesy sauce with a kick of Cajun spice, all cooked together in one glorious skillet. Forget complicated recipes and endless pots and pans – this is about maximum flavor with minimal effort. I know weeknights can be crazy, but trust me, you can absolutely make this, and it will become a regular in your rotation.

Why You’ll LOVE This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Seriously, the cleanup is a breeze. Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less time scrubbing and more time relaxing.
• Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning combined with the creamy cheese sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. It’s spicy, savory, and utterly addictive.
• Customizable: Don’t like rotini? Use penne or farfalle. Want more veggies? Throw in some bell peppers or spinach. This recipe is your canvas!
• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, you can have this on the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will devour this. It’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these are pantry staples, and the rest are easily found at any grocery store. I’ll break down each ingredient and explain why it’s important.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken thighs work great too, and are a bit more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them. Just be sure to trim any excess fat.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken. You can also use avocado oil or any other neutral oil.
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: This is the star of the show! Use your favorite brand. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with half a tablespoon and add more to taste. You can even make your own Cajun seasoning blend.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder and enhances the savory notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a hint of smokiness that elevates the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. Yellow or white onion works best.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is always best for maximum flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Adds color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• 1 pound rotini pasta: Or any other short pasta shape you like. Penne, farfalle, or even elbow macaroni would work well.
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: This is the secret ingredient that makes the sauce incredibly creamy and rich. Make sure it’s softened for easy incorporation.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a classic cheesy flavor. You can also use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For extra cheesiness and a nice melt.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and a pop of freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! I’m going to walk you through each step, so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll feel confident in the kitchen. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t stress too much about perfection.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron or another oven-safe skillet) over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).
4. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this point; it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 3: Simmer the Pasta

1. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (this adds tons of flavor!).
2. Bring the broth to a boil, then add the rotini pasta.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make it Cheesy!

1. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and gooey.
3. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce.
4. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve immediately and prepare for everyone to rave about your cooking skills!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet

Want to take your Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet to the next level? Here are some of my best tips and tricks:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Cook it al dente, meaning it should be slightly firm to the bite. It will continue to cook in the sauce, so it’s better to undercook it slightly than to overcook it.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. You can always add more later if you want. For a milder flavor, try using a Creole seasoning blend instead.
• Add Some Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet. Broccoli florets, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions. Just add them along with the bell pepper and onion.
• Make it Creamier: For an extra creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the cream cheese.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack would add a nice kick, while Gruyere would add a nutty flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the skillet up to the point of adding the cheese and chicken. Store it in the refrigerator, and then add the cheese and chicken and finish cooking when you’re ready to serve.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.

Variations to Spice Things Up

This Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet is fantastic as is, but don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Here are a few variations to get your creative juices flowing:

• Shrimp Version: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Add the shrimp to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking, until they’re pink and opaque.
• Sausage Version: Use sliced smoked sausage or andouille sausage instead of chicken. Sauté the sausage along with the vegetables.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken altogether and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed black beans for extra protein.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick. You can also use a spicy Cajun seasoning blend.
• Creamy Tomato Version: Add a can of diced tomatoes (drained) to the skillet along with the chicken broth for a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to round out your dinner:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement to the rich and creamy skillet.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a welcome addition to any pasta dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a healthy and balanced meal.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread is a delicious Southern-inspired side dish.

Other Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’re a fan of this Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet, you might also enjoy these other delicious and easy recipes:

• Hot Honey Feta Chicken: Sweet, spicy, and cheesy – what’s not to love?
• Boursin Chicken Pasta: Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with flavor.
• Chicken Thighs Dinner Recipe: A simple and satisfying weeknight meal.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps: Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
• Chicken Scampi Pasta: A classic dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: Rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Here are some common issues you might encounter while making this Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet and how to fix them:

• Sauce is Too Thick: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Sauce is Too Thin: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes, uncovered, until it thickens. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken it.
• Chicken is Overcooked: To prevent the chicken from becoming dry and overcooked, be sure to sear it quickly and then finish cooking it in the sauce. If you’re using chicken thighs, they’re more forgiving and tend to stay moist even if slightly overcooked.
• Pasta is Sticky: To prevent the pasta from sticking together, stir it occasionally while it’s cooking in the broth. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the broth.
• Cheese Isn’t Melting Smoothly: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet. If the cheese isn’t melting smoothly, try stirring in a little bit of milk or cream.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – the ultimate Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet recipe! I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious and easy dish as much as I do. Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and having fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on this recipe. Happy cooking!

Ultimate Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet

This one-pan Cheesy Cajun Chicken Rotini Skillet is a weeknight hero, delivering tender chicken, perfectly cooked rotini, and a creamy, cheesy Cajun-spiced sauce. It’s a flavorful, customizable, and quick meal that’s guaranteed to please both kids and adults.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound rotini pasta
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

• Large Skillet (preferably cast iron or oven-safe)
• Large bowl
• knife
• cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Spatula or spoon

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).
4. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
7. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
8. Bring the broth to a boil, then add the rotini pasta.
9. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
10. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
11. Add the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and gooey.
12. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce.
13. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
14. Garnish with fresh parsley.
15. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta; cook it al dente. Adjust the spice level to your preference. Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or spinach. For an extra creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream. You can prepare the skillet ahead of time up to the point of adding the cheese and chicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or cook in a skillet over low heat. Try replacing the chicken with shrimp or sausage. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more vegetables.