Some recipes tell a story before you even taste them. Cajun Chicken Rotini is one of those; bold, creamy, and a little rebellious. The first time I made it, I was trying to turn an ordinary weeknight into something that felt like a celebration. The kitchen filled with the scent of garlic, paprika, and sizzling butter, it reminded me of Nonna’s Sunday sauces but with a southern twist. This dish brings two worlds together: Italian coziness and Cajun fire, all tied up in creamy rotini spirals.
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Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Rotini
Cajun Chicken Rotini is the kind of dish that warms your spirit and wakes your taste buds. The rotini holds every drop of creamy sauce, while the Cajun seasoning brings life to tender chicken. It’s simple but full of personality, a one-pan wonder that goes from stovetop to table in under 30 minutes.
You’ll love it because:
- It’s quick, flavorful, and family-approved.
- The creamy sauce balances spice perfectly.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day.
If you’re drawn to comfort foods that surprise you, the way my Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole does, this Cajun-inspired pasta will hit every note; creamy, smoky, and just the right amount of heat.
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Cajun Chicken Rotini
A creamy, spicy Cajun Chicken Rotini pasta made with tender chicken, bold Cajun seasoning, and a smooth Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for weeknights when you crave warmth and flavor.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
12 oz rotini pasta
1 lb chicken breast (thinly sliced)
2 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1. Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain.
2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and salt.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
4. Melt butter in the same skillet, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and reserved pasta water; stir until slightly thickened.
6. Add Parmesan cheese and cooked pasta, stirring gently to coat.
7. Return chicken to the skillet, toss everything together, and simmer for 2 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
Adjust spice level to your liking.
Add smoked paprika for extra depth.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 790 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Ingredients
Every ingredient plays a role in layering flavor and texture. You’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rotini pasta | 12 oz |
| Chicken breast (thinly sliced) | 1 lb |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 3 |
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | 1 ½ cups |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Serve it with a crisp salad or alongside Sweet Potato Black Bean Casserole for a balanced meal.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Rotini
- Cook the rotini: Boil in salted water until just al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- Season the chicken: Coat with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and cook chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Melt butter in the same pan. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in cream, then stir until slightly thickened.
- Combine: Toss in pasta, reserved water, and Parmesan. Add the chicken back and stir until coated and creamy.
This dish delivers the same cozy satisfaction as my Baked Pumpkin Goat Cheese Risotto, but with a spicier edge that wakes up every bite.
Tips and Variations
- For extra heat: Add crushed red pepper or an extra teaspoon of Cajun spice.
- For lighter sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- For smoky flavor: Mix in a little smoked paprika or roasted bell peppers.
- Add greens: Spinach or kale blends beautifully with the creamy base.
If you’re in the mood for seafood, replace the chicken with shrimp like in my High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp. It keeps the spirit of Cajun cooking alive with a lighter twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of Cajun seasoning should I use?
Choose a blend with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. Store-bought or homemade both work great.
Can I make this dish ahead?
Yes, refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream.
What kind of pasta can I substitute?
Penne, rigatoni, or farfalle hold the sauce well.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for texture.
This pasta pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or a small bowl of Southern Candied Yams for a sweet contrast that makes dinner unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Cajun Chicken Rotini is that perfect mix of comfort and boldness; creamy pasta wrapped in a blanket of spice. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and tastes like something you’d get from your favorite bistro, but it starts right in your kitchen. For more food inspiration, don’t miss my Must-Try Thanksgiving Desserts for a sweet finish to any meal.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
