If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends bold spice with irresistibly creamy, cheesy goodness, then you’re going to absolutely love this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce Recipe. It’s a spectacular comfort food that brings tender, Cajun-seasoned chicken strips together with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all enveloped in a luscious mozzarella Alfredo sauce. This recipe is the kind of meal that feels fancy but comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the fuss. Get ready for a flavor adventure that’s both cozy and packed with just the right kick of Cajun spice!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce Recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced list of ingredients. Each one plays a unique role, from the spicy Cajun seasoning that brings an exciting flavor punch, to the creamy cheeses that create that dreamy sauce texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish shine:
- 12 oz rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully for every bite.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips: Tender chicken provides a hearty protein base and soaks up seasoning well.
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning: Adds that signature smoky, spicy flavor that makes the dish truly memorable.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing chicken to golden perfection and enriching the pan sauce.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps build a silky sauce when combined with cream and cheese.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious base for the Alfredo sauce with a rich, velvety texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the sauce, providing gooey, stretchy cheesy goodness.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes that elevate the sauce’s flavor complexity.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors throughout.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle heat and aroma.
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional): Helps loosen the sauce for perfect coating consistency.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts into strips for even cooking. Coat them generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base with a perfectly seasoned, juicy protein that steals the show.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the remaining butter and your minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant — this quick step wakes up the garlic’s aromatic qualities and sets the stage for the creamy sauce without burning it.
Step 3: Create the Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Let it gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. Then, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses continuously until everything melts into a smooth, silky sauce. This rich concoction will hug the pasta and chicken with every twirl and bite.
Step 4: Cook the Rotini Pasta
While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta but make sure to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water — this little trick ensures your sauce has the perfect consistency later on.
Step 5: Combine and Toss Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken strips and freshly cooked pasta to the skillet with your creamy sauce. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure the rotini and chicken are generously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up for that perfect, clinging coat.
Step 6: Final Simmer and Season
Allow the mixture to simmer together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This final simmer lets the flavors meld beautifully and ensures the sauce sticks perfectly to every bite. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed — a well-seasoned dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a handful of chopped fresh parsley takes this dish from delicious to restaurant-quality stunning. These simple garnishes add an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color that makes it as inviting visually as it is to the palate.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy Cajun chicken masterpiece with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli for a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or crusty French bread is also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that rich, cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, serve this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or extra Cajun seasoning. You can also bake it briefly with extra mozzarella on top for a bubbly, golden crust that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, any leftovers can be cooled completely and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for easy lunches or dinners on busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, freeze it in suitable containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors will remain rich and delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy sauce. Stir frequently to maintain that silky texture and prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of rotini?
Absolutely! While rotini is excellent for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or farfalle would work just as well and give you a similar experience with creamy sauce clinging to every bite.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, if you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild Cajun blend. You can also add a bit more cream or cheese to tone down the heat while keeping it flavorful.
Can I substitute the chicken with shrimp or another protein?
Definitely! Shrimp or even smoked sausage are fantastic alternatives that complement the creamy Cajun flavor. Just adjust the cook time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The original recipe uses regular pasta, but you can easily swap in gluten-free rotini or any gluten-free pasta of your choice to make this dish safe for those avoiding gluten.
How do I get the Alfredo sauce extra creamy?
Using both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses along with heavy cream creates a wonderfully creamy sauce. Ensure you melt the cheeses slowly over low heat and stir constantly for the smoothest texture. Adding a bit of reserved pasta water also helps achieve that irresistible creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavors that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So grab your skillet, gather those ingredients, and dive into this cheesy, spicy, creamy delight. You’re going to thank yourself for every delicious bite!
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that combines tender strips of Cajun-seasoned chicken with a rich, cheesy mozzarella and Parmesan Alfredo sauce. Perfectly cooked rotini pasta is tossed in this luscious sauce, creating a creamy and flavorful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz rotini pasta
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Sauce & Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Slice the chicken breast into strips and generously season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper to infuse the meat with bold flavors.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until they are browned on the outside and fully cooked through, then set the chicken aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned, to build the flavor base for the sauce.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, then stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken strips and drained pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce is too thick.
- Simmer together: Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun chicken rotini while hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For less rich sauce, substitute half the heavy cream with milk.
- Use gluten-free rotini pasta to make this dish gluten free.
- Add chopped parsley or basil for a fresh herbal note.
- Reserved pasta water helps in adjusting sauce consistency without watering down flavor.
- Leftover dish stores well and can be reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
