Description
Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken is a culinary celebration that brings together the rich creaminess of cheese and the exciting flair of Cajun-seasoned chicken.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10 oz rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish)
- Extra Parmesan (optional garnish)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create manageable cutlets. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet, cooking for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and whisk, letting it warm for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to whisk until combined. Adjust with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss the cooked rotini in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Slice the rested chicken into strips and either arrange it on top of the creamy pasta or fold it in. Garnish with fresh parsley, more grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 35 g