Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Tender, juicy Cajun-spiced chicken breast, seared to perfection and nestled atop a bed of creamy, garlic-infused rotini pasta, this dish is a bold blend of comfort and spice. Every forkful is loaded with cheesy mozzarella stretch, buttery sauce richness, and a kick of southern flair that wakes up your tastebuds without overwhelming them. The rotini’s spirals capture every drop of the velvety sauce, while the golden crust on the chicken brings texture and flavor contrast that’s nothing short of addictive.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce isn’t just a meal—it’s a flavor experience. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this dish strikes the perfect balance between weeknight simplicity and restaurant-style indulgence.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

• Bold Cajun flavor meets smooth, garlicky, cheesy comfort.
• The perfect texture trio: crispy chicken crust, creamy sauce, and tender pasta spirals.
• Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
• Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients—nothing fancy, just fantastic.
• Easily customizable with extra veggies or different cheeses if desired.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into cooking this creamy masterpiece, having the right tools on hand will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cast Iron or Non-Stick Skillet: Essential for getting that beautiful sear on the Cajun chicken. It locks in flavor and ensures a crispy outer crust without drying the meat.
• Large Saucepan or Deep Pot: Needed for boiling the rotini pasta to al dente perfection.
• Medium Saucepan: For making the creamy garlic mozzarella sauce, ensuring it melts smoothly without burning.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken without breaking the crust.
• Whisk: Crucial for stirring the sauce so it doesn’t clump and remains velvety.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For slicing the chicken cleanly and prepping garlic or herbs.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Grater (if using fresh mozzarella): For smooth, even melting of cheese into the sauce.

Having these tools in place not only streamlines the cooking process but ensures each component of the dish turns out just right—crispy where it should be, and creamy where it counts.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring the chicken to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy inside.
• Salt your pasta water generously—this is your only chance to season the pasta from within.
• Use freshly grated mozzarella instead of pre-shredded for a silkier sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside and the texture tender.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining; it can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Preheat your skillet properly before adding the chicken. You want that sizzle and sear right from the start.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Here’s everything you need to create this flavor-packed, comforting dish:

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for deeper flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness while searing)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
• Salt (for boiling water)

For the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably freshly grated)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

This combination creates a creamy, spicy, and savory pasta dish with deep layers of flavor and mouthwatering textures.

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Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning blend generously over both sides of the chicken. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prep other ingredients.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side or until a golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

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Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for another minute. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Add crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

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Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked rotini in the garlic mozzarella sauce, coating every spiral. Let it simmer together for 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavor.

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Step 7: Slice Chicken and Plate

Slice the rested Cajun chicken into strips. Plate a generous serving of creamy rotini, and place the chicken on top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired.

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Notes

• Balance the heat: Cajun seasoning can vary in spice level, so taste-test before adding extra heat like red pepper flakes.
• Use full-fat dairy: Whole milk (and real butter) create a much creamier, richer sauce than low-fat alternatives.
• Fresh cheese is key: Pre-shredded mozzarella has anti-caking agents that affect meltability. Grating it fresh will give you that luscious, stretchy texture.
• Pasta shape matters: Rotini’s spirals hold the sauce beautifully, but you can substitute with penne or rigatoni if needed.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: Cajun-spiced chicken dries out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C), then rest it before slicing.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks fast and becomes bitter if scorched. Keep heat on medium and stir constantly when making the sauce.
• Lumpy sauce: Always whisk warm milk in slowly when making your roux-based sauce. Pouring it in too quickly or without whisking can cause clumping.
• Underseasoned pasta water: Pasta should cook in heavily salted water—like seawater—to bring flavor from the inside out.
• Skipping pasta water: That starchy water is gold. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without watering it down.
• Cutting chicken too soon: Let the chicken rest to lock in the juices. Cutting immediately leads to dryness and loss of flavor.
• Using cold milk in the sauce: Warm milk integrates better with the roux, helping avoid separation or curdling.
• Overcooking the pasta: Al dente pasta not only has better texture but holds up better when mixed into sauce.

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What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini?

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini is rich, bold, and satisfying on its own—but pairing it with the right side dish can elevate your meal to the next level. Whether you’re after balance, freshness, or a little indulgence, these options complement the dish beautifully.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks

Crunchy on the outside, soft inside—perfect for mopping up that extra mozzarella garlic sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A crisp romaine or spring mix salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess and refreshes the palate.

3. Grilled Asparagus

Charred asparagus adds a subtle bitterness that balances the spice and richness of the rotini.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Tossed with olive oil, salt, and a touch of balsamic glaze, they provide a smoky, caramelized contrast.

5. Creamy Coleslaw

A slightly tangy, crunchy slaw pairs wonderfully with Cajun spices and offers a cool texture break.

6. Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds

Light, buttery, and nutty—this side dish brings both crunch and freshness to the plate.

7. Corn on the Cob with Cajun Butter

Tie the flavors together with a sweet and spicy corn side, grilled or boiled, then brushed with Cajun butter.

8. Sparkling Water or Lemon Iced Tea

For drinks, go with something crisp and citrusy to cleanse the palate between bites of cheesy, spicy goodness.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers? Lucky you—Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini actually tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it the right way:

• Refrigeration: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended for best texture, as the cream sauce may separate or become grainy when thawed. However, if needed, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then reheat gently with added milk or cream.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to life.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~620 kcal
• Protein: 39g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0.2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1 ½ cups)
• Dietary Tags: High-Protein, Comfort Food, Spicy

These values can vary slightly based on the brand of cheese, milk, and pasta used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rotini?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work well. Just choose a shape that holds onto the sauce nicely.

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2. Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a moderate kick from the Cajun seasoning, but you can easily adjust the heat by using less seasoning or skipping the red pepper flakes.

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3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a hearty, meatless version.

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4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the sauce?

Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water while reheating over low heat. Stir often to bring the sauce back to creamy perfection.

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5. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great time-saver. Just season it lightly with Cajun spices and warm it before adding on top of the pasta.

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6. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick mix using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix to taste!

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7. Can I add veggies into the pasta?

Definitely. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed bell peppers pair perfectly with the creamy sauce and Cajun chicken.

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8. Is it okay to make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but store it separately from the pasta. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk to loosen before mixing with fresh-cooked pasta.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s the kind of comfort food that makes people stop mid-bite to say “wow.” With its rich, garlicky cheese sauce, bold Cajun-spiced chicken, and pasta that holds every bit of flavor, this dish is pure satisfaction in a bowl.

It’s quick enough to make on a busy evening, but impressive enough for entertaining. The versatility, flavor punch, and creamy, cheesy goodness make it a go-to recipe for any pasta lover. Save it, share it, and most importantly—enjoy every bite.

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