Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet

There are dinners you eat because you’re hungry, and then there are dinners you eat because your soul needs comfort food. Enter the Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet—a creamy, Cajun-spiced, cheesy pasta that’s hearty, flavorful, and gloriously easy.

With juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a triple-cheese sauce that hugs every swirl of rotini, this skillet is a weeknight hero. And the best part? You only need one pan (well, two if you count the pasta pot, but that barely counts).

Whether you’re feeding a family or just want something satisfying after a long day, this recipe brings restaurant-worthy flavor to your table in just 30 minutes. It’s quick, it’s creamy, and it’s the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet

• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Triple cheese heaven: Mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan = gooey perfection.
• Cajun kick: Bold spices balance the richness.
• Weeknight ready: On the table in just 30 minutes.
• Family-approved: Kid-friendly creamy pasta with a grown-up flavor boost.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook 6–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce

Melt butter in the same skillet. Add garlic, sauté 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth and cream, bring to a gentle simmer. Add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return chicken and pasta to skillet. Toss until coated in the sauce. Let simmer 2–3 minutes for flavors to blend.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot!

Melania’s Tips for Perfect Cheesy Chicken Rotini

• Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is key so it holds up in the sauce.
• Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Reserve some pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce.
• Extra cheese on top never hurt anybody (except maybe your jeans).

Bake It With the Littles

Kids can:

• Sprinkle the cheese into the sauce (bonus: snack on a little).
• Stir pasta and chicken into the skillet.
• Garnish with parsley—or their favorite herbs if parsley “looks too green.”

Cooking together makes weeknight dinners feel special, even when the day’s been chaotic.

Meal-Prep Magic

• Make ahead: Cook pasta and chicken in advance, then finish with sauce when ready to serve.
• Storage: Keeps 3–4 days in the fridge.
• Reheat: Add a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
• Freezer-friendly: Freeze portions up to 2 months, thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.

Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber.
• Swap in half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Try reduced-fat cheese or just use less.
• Toss in spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra veggies.

Leftover Remix

• Cheesy Pasta Bake: Add breadcrumbs and bake leftovers at 375°F until crispy.
• Wrap It Up: Spoon into tortillas with extra cheese for a cheesy chicken wrap.
• Soup Starter: Stir into chicken broth for a creamy pasta soup.

Gift It Like a Pro

Package in a casserole dish with a note: “Heat, eat, repeat.” Pair with garlic bread and a small salad for a ready-to-enjoy meal gift. Perfect for busy families or friends who could use a little love.

FAQs

Can I use another pasta shape?
Absolutely—penne, fusilli, or shells all work well.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?
It has a mild kick. Adjust by adding more or less to taste.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner—add a little extra cheese to thicken.

Do I need all three cheeses?
Not strictly, but the combo gives you the best flavor and texture.

Final Thought

This Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—creamy, cheesy, and ready in 30 minutes. It’s bold, comforting, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself (because you deserve cheesy pasta too), this skillet delivers.

If you loved this, you’ll also enjoy my Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for another quick and flavorful skillet dinner.

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