Pin it
Rotini in Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo with Cajun Chicken is pure comfort with a punch I turn to this pasta when I want a mix of creamy richness and bold spicy flavor The cajun chicken brings a smoky kick that stands out against the velvety sauce and tender rotini noodles
My family begs for this on chilly nights I started making it to combine my love for spice with their devotion to cheesy pasta and now it is a go to for both comfort and a little excitement
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips: Gives the dish lean protein and absorbs Cajun spices well Look for chicken that is fresh with a pinkish color and smooth texture
- Olive oil: Coats the chicken and helps crisp the exterior Choose extra virgin for more flavor
- Cajun seasoning: Packs bold flavor Look for a blend with paprika garlic and a touch of heat Check the label for quality spices
- Smoked paprika: Adds extra smoky depth Opt for Spanish smoked varieties for authenticity
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances all other flavors Freshly ground pepper gives bigger aroma
- Rotini pasta: The classic curly shape holds onto the sauce perfectly Use bronze cut pasta for better texture
- Butter: Brings rich base flavor to the garlic and sauce Use real unsalted butter not margarine
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for that classic Alfredo warmth Choose firm cloves with no green sprouts
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce thick and luscious Use full fat for best results
- Cream cheese: Helps the sauce stay silky with a subtle tang Use room temperature for smoother melting
- Shredded mozzarella: Gives creaminess and excellent cheese pull Look for low moisture mozzarella for better melting
- Grated Parmesan: Adds salty nutty depth Grate yourself from a wedge for more flavor
- Italian seasoning: Balances out the bold chicken with a gentle herb blend Use a mix of basil oregano and thyme for the freshest taste
- Red pepper flakes: Bring gentle heat Use or skip based on your spice preference
- Reserved pasta water: Helps the sauce cling to the noodles and adjust consistency
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness Chop just before serving for best flavor
- Extra Parmesan: For extra creaminess and cheesy aroma
- A pinch of Italian seasoning: Finishes with herbal aroma
Instructions
- Cook the Rotini:
- Boil the rotini in a large pot of salted water until al dente Stir occasionally to keep pasta from sticking Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining This water is starchy and will help the sauce cling to the rotini Drain and set aside keeping the pasta warm
- Cook the Cajun Chicken:
- Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels This removes excess moisture so you get the best sear Sprinkle both sides generously with Cajun seasoning smoked paprika salt and freshly cracked black pepper Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat Add the chicken strips in a single layer Sear for about three to four minutes per side letting the chicken develop a deep golden color before flipping Do not crowd the pan or the chicken will steam instead of brown Remove cooked chicken from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm
- Make the Cheesy Italian Herb Alfredo Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium In the same skillet melt the butter scraping up any bits left from the chicken Add the minced garlic Sauté just until fragrant about thirty seconds as you do not want the garlic to brown Quickly pour in the heavy cream and warm it through stirring gently Whisk in cream cheese until fully smooth and melted Add shredded mozzarella grated parmesan and Italian seasoning Continue stirring until you have a smooth thick sauce If you like heat sprinkle in red pepper flakes Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste If the sauce is too thick drizzle in a splash of reserved pasta water until silky
- Combine Pasta and Chicken:
- Pour the cooked and drained rotini into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce Toss well so every noodle is coated The pasta will absorb some sauce so mix thoroughly Next fold in the seared Cajun chicken strips Gently toss so the chicken and pasta are evenly distributed
- Serve and Garnish:
- Spoon the creamy rotini and chicken into bowls Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley extra grated parmesan and if you like an extra pinch of Italian seasoning Serve immediately and enjoy while hot
Pin it
My favorite part is the sauce To me the combo of tangy cream cheese and real parmesan is non negotiable I remember the first night we made this together grinding pepper fresh for each bowl and everyone went back for seconds
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days When reheating add a splash of milk or cream and warm slowly on the stovetop to keep the sauce silky This dish does not freeze well as the cream can separate so enjoy it fresh or soon after
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap rotini for penne fusilli or even fettuccine Use boneless chicken thighs if you want extra juiciness For a lighter version try half and half instead of heavy cream or use part skim mozzarella If you need this to be vegetarian skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli
Serving Suggestions
Serve this alongside garlic bread for a crunchy contrast or add a green salad tossed with tangy vinaigrette For extra color and nutrition sneak in spinach or blistered cherry tomatoes into the sauce before tossing the pasta
Cultural and Personal Notes
This dish takes inspiration from classic Alfredo but blends in American Cajun flavors for a bold twist The technique of searing spiced chicken first builds layers of flavor which I find essential for memorable weeknight meals Sharing bowls of this with family in the winter kitchen has become an unexpectedly cherished ritual
Pin it
This creamy spicy rotini will instantly become a weeknight favorite The warmth of the chicken and cheese is the ultimate comfort on a chilly evening
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How spicy is the Cajun chicken?
The Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes give the chicken a mild to moderate heat, which can be adjusted to taste.
- → Can a different pasta shape be used?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well, but rotini holds the creamy sauce particularly well.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, it reheats well. Store in an airtight container and add a splash of milk when reheating for creaminess.
- → What cheeses work best for the sauce?
Mozzarella and Parmesan create a smooth, rich sauce, with optional cream cheese for extra silkiness.
- → How can I make it vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and try sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a hearty, meatless option.