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)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses. Mix until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Return the cooked chicken and drained rotini to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the cheesy Cajun garlic sauce. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use reduced-fat cheese.

Swap chicken breast for shrimp or sausage for a different protein twist.

Add bell peppers or spinach to the skillet for extra veggies and color.

If you prefer less spice, reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells will work well. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

While you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best to store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within a few days for optimal texture and flavor.