Garlic Butter Chicken over Cheesy Cajun Rotini

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Golden seared chicken meets the rich and spicy comfort of cheesy Cajun rotini in this crave-worthy dish. The smoky undertones of Cajun seasoning pair beautifully with the mellow, nutty tang of the cheese sauce, creating a pasta bowl that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Add juicy slices of garlic butter chicken on top, and it transforms into a showstopper of a meal.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want big flavor without a lot of fuss. The sauce clings lovingly to each corkscrew of rotini, and the final dish is garnished with bright tomatoes and fresh basil for a pop of freshness.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Cheesy Cajun Chicken?

Rotini is ideal because of its twisted shape, which grabs onto the cheesy Cajun sauce and delivers a flavor punch in every bite. However, penne, rigatoni, or even cavatappi can be used if needed. Just aim for a short, ridged pasta that holds sauce well.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken over Cheesy Cajun Rotini

Chicken Breasts
Juicy, boneless skinless chicken breasts are seasoned and seared until golden for the protein portion of the dish.

Rotini Pasta
Its spiraled texture is perfect for soaking up creamy sauces, making every bite saucy and flavorful.

Cajun Seasoning
Adds that smoky, spicy backbone. You can go mild or bold depending on your preference.

Garlic Butter
Infused into the chicken and drizzled at the end, this mix of garlic and butter adds richness and a savory edge.

Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese
These create the lush, velvety base of the cheese sauce. Cream cheese adds body and tang.

Cheddar Cheese
For bold flavor and gooey meltability. A sharp cheddar works beautifully.

Tomatoes and Basil (Optional Garnish)
They bring freshness and color, balancing the richness of the dish.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken over Cheesy Cajun Rotini

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting dry two boneless skinless chicken breasts. Season them generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set them aside while you prepare the pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 3 minced garlic cloves. Once fragrant, add the chicken and sear for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Cajun Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in 4 oz of softened cream cheese and let it melt completely. Mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and whisk until smooth. Add 1-2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the drained rotini into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the consistency. Stir until well coated.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Slice the rested chicken and lay it over the creamy Cajun rotini. Garnish with cherry tomato slices and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Chicken over Cheesy Cajun Rotini

Serve this dish hot and fresh from the skillet for the ultimate creamy-cheesy comfort. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. A sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning or a drizzle of hot sauce can dial up the heat for those who like it spicy.

For storing, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

That depends on your Cajun seasoning. Some blends are milder, while others bring real heat. You can always adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just warm it in the garlic butter before adding it on top. It won’t be as juicy as freshly cooked, but it’s still tasty and convenient.

What other pasta shapes work well?

Penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni are all good options. Stick to something with ridges or curves to catch the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead. Reheat gently and toss freshly cooked pasta in before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Whole milk with a bit of flour for thickening or half-and-half can work, though the sauce may be less rich.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Not ideally. Cream-based sauces can separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, which doubles down on the heat and richness with a spicy sauce twist. For something with more smoky depth, the One Skillet Smoky Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta is another great option.

If you lean toward hearty and nostalgic flavors, try the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti—a creamy baked delight. Or check out the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a flavor-packed alternative that keeps the rotini theme going strong.

Another savory winner? The One Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta, which brings comfort food to a whole new level with cheesy BBQ fusion.

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go extra spicy? Add veggies or use a different cheese? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how your kitchens spin it.

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