Description
A bold and creamy pasta dish that brings together Cajun-spiced chicken and velvety mozzarella Alfredo sauce—this is comfort food at its finest. Twirls of rotini hold the silky, cheesy sauce perfectly while the crispy Cajun chicken adds that irresistible spice and golden texture. Whether you’re after an easy dinner, a hearty meal prep idea, or something indulgent for pasta night, this quick dinner recipe checks all the boxes. It’s high-protein, family-approved, and delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Ideal for fans of easy recipes, dinner ideas, and food ideas with a little Southern flair.
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter (optional)
12 oz rotini pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Extra Cajun seasoning for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Boil rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil (and butter, if using) over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then slice into strips.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
5. Slowly pour in heavy cream and milk while whisking. Let simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.
6. Stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
7. Toss drained rotini in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to adjust thickness.
8. Plate pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with parsley and extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for a better sear and crust.
Use freshly shredded mozzarella for smoother, creamier sauce texture.
Don’t forget to save pasta water—it can bring the sauce back to life if it thickens too much.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: cajun chicken pasta, mozzarella alfredo, easy dinner, creamy rotini, quick pasta recipe