Cheesy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini Skillet
This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty Cajun seasoning all in one pot, making it an ideal comfort food meal for cozy nights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base
- 1 pound rotini pasta Can substitute with gluten-free pasta.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Ensure chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust based on heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream For a creamier texture, consider adding more heavy cream.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) Consider different cheese types for variations.
- 2 green onions sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Incorporate the chicken pieces into the skillet along with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it's browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
Making the Sauce
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, then let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Mix in the cooked rotini and one cup of shredded cheese, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.
Finishing Touches
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
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Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for 2-3 months. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive creaminess.