Description

A quick and comforting one-skillet meal with tender chicken, Cajun spices, fresh garlic, and a creamy, cheesy sauce tossed with rotini pasta for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced

8 oz rotini pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Cook rotini pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Add minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Reduce heat to medium-low, stir in heavy cream, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens.
Add cooked rotini, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese melts and pasta is coated in sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For a seafood variation, substitute chicken with shrimp.

Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Adjust spice level by increasing or decreasing Cajun seasoning.

Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 520
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 31g
Cholesterol: 125mg