Name: Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized chunks); 12 oz rotini pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))

Jump to Recipe

Get ready for a dinner that hits all the right notes: cheesy, comforting, and bursting with a bold Cajun kick! Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s as fun to eat as it sounds to say. Imagine juicy chicken pieces, tender rotini pasta, and a lusciously creamy, garlicky-cheese sauce, all sprinkled with a lively Cajun seasoning. Did you know skillet dinners have been a family favorite for generations due to their ease and speedy cleanup? This skillet recipe fits right in, ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights. If you love our insanely popular Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll adore this Southern spin! Simple, quick-prep, and sure to please every age, this dish will have your family asking for seconds. So grab your skillet—dinner just got easier and more delicious!

What is Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet?

With a name like Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet, you might wonder—did every ingredient get an invite to the title? Why not! This recipe is a flavor-packed party in one pan, and the name says it all. Cajun spices, garlic, tender chicken, rotini pasta, and all the melty cheese your heart desires—what’s not to love? They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but honestly, anyone lucky enough to eat this dish will fall in love instantly! Hungry yet? Take a spin at this skillet sensation and see just why it’s become an instant family classic.

Why You’ll Love This

Say goodbye to bland, boring dinners! The star of this dish is the creamy, cheesy Cajun sauce that hugs every piece of chicken and rotini, making each bite perfectly flavorful and satisfying. Making this meal at home is oh-so-budget-friendly—no need to head to your favorite restaurant when you can create something even better in your own kitchen. Fresh garlic and a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese make for a gooey, melty topping that sets this skillet apart. Reminiscent of our Creamy Chicken Alfredo, but with a signature Cajun twist, this recipe will inspire you to explore even more bold flavors. Time to treat yourself and your family—dinner just got a delicious upgrade!

How to Make

Quick Overview

The beauty of Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is all in its simplicity—and the irresistible flavor that comes together in under 30 minutes! You’ll love how easy it is: just brown the chicken, cook the pasta, and stir up a creamy, cheesy, Cajun-infused sauce—all in one skillet with minimal cleanup. The creamy texture, bold spices, and gooey cheese make every bite downright dreamy. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish is proof that quick dinners can taste absolutely amazing.

A skillet filled with cheesy Cajun garlic chicken rotini pasta, garnished with fresh parsley and melted cheese, showcasing creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
12 oz rotini pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil.
Toss the chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Sauté the seasoned chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Bring the cream mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Meanwhile, cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Return the chicken to the skillet, combining with the cheesy pasta. Stir until everything is heated through.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

What to Serve Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet With

To round out your meal, serve this skillet pasta with a crisp garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce. For a lighter touch, try a side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing finish.

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra flavor, marinate your chicken in Cajun seasoning ahead of time.
If you don’t have rotini, any short pasta shape works—penne and fusilli are great alternatives.
Want it extra creamy? Add a splash more cream or a bit of cream cheese to the sauce.
Watch the heat to avoid curdling your sauce; cook over gentle-medium heat.
Spice level too high or low? Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste preferences.
Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken for sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, let your skillet pasta cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months—simply defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce silky smooth.

FAQs

How spicy is Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning—feel free to adjust amount for a milder or bolder flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap regular rotini for your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

What if I don’t have all three cheeses?
No worries! Use your favorites or what you have on hand—any good melting cheese will work.

Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and is perfect for prepping lunches ahead of time.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely. Sauté bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet is a dish that truly brings the wow factor to your dinner table. With its bold, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and that signature Cajun flair, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Quick to prepare, fun to make, and even more fun to eat, it checks all the boxes for a family-friendly meal. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a skillet full of comfort tonight! If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out more easy, flavorful dinners on the blog. Happy cooking!