Description
A cozy and creamy one-pan dish featuring rotini pasta and chicken, perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces (Use about 1 to 1.25 pounds for 4 servings.)
- 12 ounces Rotini pasta
- 1-2 tablespoons Olive oil or butter
- 3-5 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1.5-2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (Adjust to taste.)
- 3 cups Chicken broth (Add a splash if needed.)
- 3/4 cup Heavy cream or 1 cup half and half (Use for creaminess.)
- 2-4 ounces Cream cheese (For an extra creamy texture.)
- 1-1.5 cups Shredded cheddar or cheddar blend
- 1/3 cup Parmesan, optional
- Salt and pepper (Go easy on salt due to Cajun seasoning.)
- Bell pepper or onion, optional (For added veggies.)
- Green onions or parsley for topping, optional (For garnishing.)
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat a large deep skillet over medium high heat and add oil.
- Toss the chicken with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of pepper, and cook until browned and mostly cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Move it to a plate.
- Turn the heat down slightly, and add more oil if the pan looks dry, then add garlic (and onion or bell pepper if using). Stir for 30 to 60 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Add rotini and stir to ensure it’s mostly submerged.
- Cover and simmer, stirring every couple of minutes until the pasta is tender, about 10 to 12 minutes, depending on the brand.
- Add the chicken back in, reduce heat to low, and stir in cream and cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in cheddar (and parmesan if using). Taste and adjust Cajun seasoning. Let it sit for 2 minutes to thicken.
Notes
This recipe keeps well and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth, milk, or water. You can adjust for dietary preferences such as gluten-free or dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Cajun