Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce: A Flavor-Packed Pasta Dish

Introduction

If you crave a pasta dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with bold flavors, look no further than Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. This one-pan wonder combines tender rotini pasta, succulent Cajun-spiced chicken, and a luxurious garlic mozzarella sauce that coats every bite.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or impressing guests, this dish brings together the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesiness. The Cajun seasoning adds a subtle heat and depth, while the mozzarella sauce ensures each forkful is decadently smooth and flavorful.

Whether served straight from the skillet or plated with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that satisfies both comfort food cravings and gourmet tastes.

A Brief Background

Cajun cuisine originates from Louisiana, blending French, African, and Spanish influences to create dishes rich in flavor and spice. Combining this with Italian-inspired pasta dishes results in a fusion that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

Fun fact: Cajun seasoning typically includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper, providing depth without overwhelming heat. When paired with a creamy mozzarella sauce, it creates a harmonious balance of spice and richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
  • Rich & Creamy: Garlic mozzarella sauce adds a luscious texture.
  • Flavor-Packed: Cajun-spiced chicken brings bold seasoning to every bite.
  • Quick & Family-Friendly: Ready in under 40 minutes.
  • Customizable: Add vegetables, extra cheese, or swap proteins.
  • Comfort Food: Perfectly indulgent while still approachable.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

For the Chicken & Seasoning:

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1–2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta & Sauce:

  • 12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers or spinach
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms

Equipment Needed:

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium pot for boiling pasta
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Cheese grater

Pro Tips:

  • Use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
  • Cook chicken first to ensure even seasoning and proper texture.
  • Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Rotini

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the Cajun Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Sauté chicken until fully cooked and golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat, if desired.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
  2. Add the cooked rotini and gently toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
  3. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water, if needed.
  4. Optional: Stir in vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

5. Garnish & Serve

  1. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta.
  2. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
  3. Optional: Add extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top for indulgence.

Visual Cue: Pasta should be evenly coated in a creamy, white garlic sauce with golden-brown Cajun chicken pieces nestled throughout.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Sauce Too Thick: Add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve desired consistency.
  • Chicken Undercooked: Ensure bite-sized pieces are cooked through before combining with pasta.
  • Cheese Clumping: Reduce heat slightly while melting cheeses to prevent separation.
  • Make Ahead: Cook chicken and boil pasta separately; combine with sauce before serving.
  • Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Variations & Customizations

  • Spicy Cajun: Increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Vegetarian: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers.
  • Cheese Lovers: Mix mozzarella with fontina, provolone, or a little cream cheese for richer flavor.
  • Whole Grain or Gluten-Free: Substitute rotini with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
  • One-Pot Version: Sauté chicken, garlic, and sauce in the same pan, then add uncooked pasta with extra liquid; cook until pasta is tender.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

  • Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for color.
  • Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Add a drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of smoked paprika for gourmet presentation.
  • Portion into individual bowls for meal prep or family-style serving.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
  • Meal Prep: Cook chicken and pasta ahead; combine with sauce just before serving for quick weeknight meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Reduce sauté time and fold shredded chicken into the sauce during the final step.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use dairy-free cheeses.

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well to hold the creamy sauce.

Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and makes a filling lunch or dinner option.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a flavorful, comforting pasta dish that brings together spicy Cajun chicken, tender rotini, and rich garlic mozzarella sauce in one delicious meal. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, this recipe elevates weeknight pasta to gourmet comfort food.

With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve hot, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy the ultimate indulgence in every bite.

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