Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that brings bold flavors to your table. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce that coats every spiral of rotini. The blend of Cajun spices adds a kick, while the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create a comforting and indulgent meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning paired with garlic and buttery sauces delivers a taste that’s both spicy and savory.
• Creamy Comfort Food: The addition of heavy cream and cheese creates a luxurious texture that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything you need at hand will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for boiling the rotini pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken and helps in creating the sauce seamlessly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

For the Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

How to Make Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rotini

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini and cook until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 7-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. In the last minute, stir in half of the minced garlic to infuse flavor. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet, followed by the rest of the garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Create Creamy Mixture

Pour in the heavy cream while stirring as it heats up. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Stir in mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until melted into a thick, velvety sauce.

Step 7: Season Your Sauce

Season with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Combine Everything Together

Add cooked rotini to the skillet. Toss until all spirals are coated with that creamy Cajun cheese sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.

Step 9: Serve Your Dish

Serve hot with Cajun garlic chicken spooned on top or folded in. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce!

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

Serving Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Plated Presentation

• Use large, shallow bowls for a restaurant-style look.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese for a pop of color.

Family Style

• Serve in a large serving bowl for a communal feel.
• Allow guests to help themselves, making it a fun dining experience.

With Extra Toppings

• Add sliced green onions or diced tomatoes on top for freshness.
• Offer crushed red pepper flakes on the side for added spice.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the sauce.
• A side of cheesy breadsticks can complement the meal perfectly.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for added nutrition.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

Perfecting this dish takes just a few extra steps. Here are some tips to ensure your Cajun Chicken Rotini is a hit every time.

• Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, boneless chicken breasts yield better flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; adjust Cajun seasoning and salt as needed.
• Reserve pasta water: Keep some reserved pasta water handy to adjust the sauce consistency if it thickens too much.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente rotini for the best texture in your dish.
• Melt cheese slowly: Stir in cheeses over low heat to achieve that creamy, velvety sauce without clumping.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

Pairing sides with your Cajun Chicken Rotini can enhance the overall meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this rich dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for mopping up sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds crunch and freshness.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a colorful, healthy contrast to the creamy pasta.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and is great during summer months.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add earthy flavors that balance well with the rich sauce of the rotini.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can help cut through the richness of the dish while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season the chicken and sauce can result in bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rotini beyond al dente can lead to mushy pasta. Follow package instructions and check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time.

• Using low-quality cheese: Substituting fresh mozzarella with pre-shredded cheese can impact taste and texture. Opt for high-quality cheese for a rich, creamy sauce.

• Skipping the reserved pasta water: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Add small amounts of reserved water to achieve the desired consistency.

• Rushing the garlic sauté: Overcooking garlic can make it bitter. Sauté garlic just until fragrant for optimal flavor in your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (about 1-2 minutes), stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce.

Can I customize the spice level of Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce?

Yes! You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference. Start with less and add more as desired.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini works well, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli if you prefer different shapes.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Consider using grilled chicken instead of pan-seared and swap heavy cream for a lighter alternative like half-and-half or Greek yogurt.

What should I serve with this dish?

Cajun Chicken Rotini pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complement its rich flavors.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything in advance and store it separately. Combine just before serving for fresh flavors.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that’s both creamy and flavorful, making it perfect for any dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Try this recipe today; your family will love it!

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Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. This recipe features tender chicken pieces seasoned with zesty Cajun spices, perfectly paired with spiral rotini pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. The garlicky butter sauce envelops every bite, creating a comforting meal ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its quick preparation time and crowd-pleasing flavors, this dish is a must-try for any pasta lover!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Cajun seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook rotini in salted boiling water until al dente (9-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear chicken for 7-8 minutes until cooked through. Add half the garlic during the last minute.
4. Lower heat; add remaining butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream; simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted into the sauce; season to taste.
7. Combine cooked rotini with the sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 670
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 120mg