Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is pure comfort food that delivers a spicy kick with a velvety, cheesy twist. Imagine juicy, pan-seared Cajun chicken nestled over tender rotini pasta, drenched in a silky garlic mozzarella sauce that stretches with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that turns any weeknight dinner into a cozy, restaurant-style treat at home.

Whether you’re craving something rich and hearty or just want to spice up your pasta routine, this recipe brings both bold flavor and creamy indulgence to the table. With layers of heat, creaminess, and that unforgettable cheesy pull, this pasta is perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a satisfying meal solo.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini starts with having the right tools at your fingertips. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: Essential for searing the chicken to get that irresistible crust without overcooking the inside.
• Large Pot for Pasta: A wide, deep pot helps the rotini cook evenly and avoids clumping.
• Whisk: Crucial for getting the garlic mozzarella sauce silky smooth and fully blended.
• Tongs or Spatula: Useful for flipping the chicken and handling hot ingredients with control.
• Cheese Grater: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
• Meat Thermometer (Optional): Ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F inside without guessing.

A few reliable kitchen tools make this recipe easier and ensure each element comes out perfectly cooked, creamy, and balanced.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

To craft the depth and creaminess in this dish, each ingredient serves a flavorful purpose:

• Rotini Pasta: Its twisted shape holds onto the sauce, making every bite deliciously coated.
• Chicken Breasts: Lean yet juicy, they take on the Cajun seasoning beautifully and deliver a tender bite.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adds that bold, smoky heat that defines the dish’s flavor profile.
• Garlic (Minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory notes.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, providing richness and silkiness.
• Mozzarella Cheese (Freshly Shredded): Melts into gooey perfection for that signature cheese pull.
• Butter: Enhances the sauce with a smooth, buttery foundation.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and build layers of flavor.
• Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning and balance.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): A pop of green and freshness to finish the dish.

Each element is chosen to elevate the texture, flavor, and aroma of this creamy pasta delight.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and generously coat them with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to rest.

Step 2: Boil the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously with a whisk. Slowly add in shredded mozzarella, whisking until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini into the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Let it simmer for a minute or two to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into thick strips. Plate the creamy rotini and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a final sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if desired.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini is best served hot, straight from the skillet. The mozzarella will be perfectly melty, and the sauce at its creamiest. For an extra touch, serve with warm garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

If you’re planning to meal prep or save leftovers, transfer the pasta and chicken into an airtight container once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm over medium heat to restore the sauce’s smooth consistency without drying it out.

Freezing isn’t ideal due to the creamy sauce, which can separate once thawed, but it’s possible in a pinch. Make sure it’s cooled completely and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of cream cheese to maintain a rich texture. Just note that the sauce may be slightly less thick.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on your Cajun seasoning. Some blends are milder, while others pack heat. Feel free to adjust the amount or mix with a bit of paprika to mellow it out.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work great. Just make sure it’s a pasta shape that holds onto creamy sauces.

How can I make it more garlicky?

Add an extra clove or two of garlic during the sauté step, or stir in a bit of garlic powder for an extra punch.

What if I don’t have mozzarella?

You can use Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a creamy Havarti. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables or plant-based chicken strips and proceed with the same seasoning and sauce.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this creamy, spicy bowl of goodness has your taste buds tingling, here are a few more chicken-based pasta recipes to try next from Life With Olivia:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken – crispy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – a one-pot favorite with a veggie twist.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – creamy, cheesy layers with a crunchy topping.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot – a slow-cooked comfort dish.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – rich, smooth, and quick to make.

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And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you go all-in on the Cajun heat? Did you swap in a different cheese? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments—let’s make dinnertime more fun and flavorful together!

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