Ever crave something cheesy, spicy, and soul-satisfying in one comforting bowl? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce checks every box with its golden-seared Cajun chicken slices perched on a luscious bed of rotini coated in creamy, melty mozzarella sauce infused with garlic and herbs.

The best part? It strikes that perfect balance—the Cajun spice adds just enough heat without overwhelming, and the mozzarella ties everything together with a pull-apart creamy richness. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just indulging yourself after a long day, this dish elevates weeknight comfort food to something extraordinary.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools:

Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan: Ideal for getting that crispy sear on your Cajun chicken, locking in flavor and moisture.
Large Pot: You’ll need this for boiling the rotini pasta to al dente perfection.
Saucepan: Essential for crafting the garlic mozzarella sauce without scorching the dairy.
Whisk: To ensure your cheese sauce comes out smooth and creamy.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For prepping the chicken into even, quick-cooking fillets.

Each tool plays a role in either preserving flavor or creating the silky texture that makes this dish unforgettable.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-rich, perfect for absorbing bold Cajun seasoning and forming juicy slices.
Rotini Pasta: Its spirals cling to the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful.
Mozzarella Cheese: Delivers that signature stretch and creamy melt into the sauce.
Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, adding rich texture.
Butter: Helps sauté garlic and adds a silky base to the cream.
Fresh Garlic: Boosts flavor with its robust aromatic punch.
Cajun Seasoning: Provides the essential spicy and smoky notes.
Parsley: Adds fresh green color and herby balance.
Salt & Pepper: To taste and enhance all the other flavors.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry and generously coat them in Cajun seasoning. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, add a touch of oil, and sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through and beautifully charred. Let rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Stir until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add mozzarella cheese in batches, whisking until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Toss the cooked rotini in the garlic mozzarella sauce until fully coated. Plate the pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini

Serve this dish hot off the stove for maximum creaminess and flavor. The rotini holds onto the sauce beautifully, and the chicken retains its juicy, spicy character when freshly sliced. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

For leftovers, store the pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and reheat gently over low heat to avoid breaking the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work great with this sauce, though rotini captures the creaminess best.

Is it too spicy for kids?

The heat level is moderate. If you’re cooking for little ones, you can cut back on the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version.

Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?

Yes! Fontina or Monterey Jack are good substitutes if you’re looking for the same melt factor with a slightly different flavor.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp works beautifully here, especially with Cajun seasoning. You can also try smoked sausage or tofu for a different twist.

How do I make it more garlicky?

Add more fresh garlic cloves or a sprinkle of garlic powder into the sauce during cooking for a more pronounced flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but store the components separately. Reheat the sauce gently and combine before serving to maintain the best texture.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini got you hooked on bold flavors, you should definitely check out the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a hearty meat-packed option that’s comfort food at its finest.

You might also like the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, which brings the heat with layers of tangy sauce and gooey cheese.

Craving something equally creamy? The Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup makes a great starter.

For a twist on the pasta-cheese combo, try Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, or dive into the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for indulgent depth of flavor.

And if you’re looking for even more recipes like this, come hang out with me on Pinterest at LadyPlate. I post new meals daily that bring bold and comforting together.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give this a go, I want to hear about it! Did you go heavy on the garlic? Swap in a different cheese? Leave a comment below and share your version. I love seeing how these meals come to life in other kitchens.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 3 to 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Rotini with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce brings together spicy seared chicken, tender rotini pasta, and a rich, garlicky cheese sauce that melts beautifully. It’s a perfect comfort dish for cozy dinners or impressing guests with its bold yet balanced flavor.