Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

This Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken is a dish you’ll dream about long after the last bite. It balances everything just right: tender pasta, juicy spiced chicken, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce that clings to every curl of rotini. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right kick, while the garlic butter brings in a warmth that ties everything together.

Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or trying to impress friends over dinner, this recipe works like a charm. It’s indulgent, deeply flavorful, and fast enough to pull together without breaking a sweat. Rotini is perfect for holding onto that velvety sauce, while the Cajun chicken adds a flavorful twist that takes it over the top.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

This dish is both comforting and bold. The creamy parmesan sauce is smooth and rich without being too heavy, and the rotini pasta gives you a fun, satisfying texture. Add in Cajun-spiced garlic butter chicken, and you’ve got a flavor-packed dinner with minimal fuss.

It’s also easily adaptable. Don’t have rotini? Swap in penne or bowtie. Want it spicier? Add extra Cajun seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This recipe is designed to be a canvas for your cravings.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning or mix up your own using a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Store-bought blends are great in a pinch, but making your own gives you full control over the heat level and saltiness.

Make sure to taste the seasoning on its own first—some are much saltier or spicier than others. If you’re using a particularly bold mix, you may want to ease up a bit and adjust to taste after the chicken is cooked.

Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

This dish comes together with a mix of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building those layers of flavor, from the spiced chicken to the luxurious sauce.

• Rotini pasta
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• Butter
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Parsley

The rotini pasta holds onto the creamy sauce like a dream. Chicken breasts serve as the protein base and soak up the Cajun spices perfectly. Cajun seasoning is essential for that bold flavor punch. Butter and garlic form the base of the garlic butter sauce, bringing richness and depth. Heavy cream and parmesan cheese make the sauce ultra-creamy and cheesy. A bit of olive oil helps with searing the chicken, while salt and black pepper balance everything out. Finally, parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make the Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the rotini until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently. Once warmed, add freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rotini to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Slice the Cajun chicken and place on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Serving and Storing Your Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

This recipe comfortably feeds four to five hungry eaters. It’s hearty enough to serve on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with lighter sides if you’re feeding a crowd. The creamy sauce and flavorful chicken reheat beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prepping.

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. While it can be frozen, the creamy sauce might separate a bit upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

What to Serve With Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken?

Steamed or Roasted Broccoli

The slight bitterness and crunch of broccoli contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad brings tang and crispness to round out the richness of the dish.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their deep, nutty flavor complements the bold Cajun spice.

Grilled Asparagus

Lightly charred asparagus spears add a pop of green and earthy bite.

Simple Cucumber and Tomato Salad

For a fresh, cooling side, toss cucumbers and tomatoes with lemon juice and olive oil.

Creamy Coleslaw

For a Southern twist, creamy coleslaw adds crunch and sweetness.

Sauteed Spinach

A quick saute in olive oil with garlic gives a nutritious and mild side option.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If this creamy parmesan rotini with Cajun garlic butter chicken has you craving more bold, satisfying dishes, check out these flavorful pasta favorites:

• Creamy Cajun Linguine brings smoky heat in a velvety sauce that’s irresistible.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a Tex-Mex dream with a gooey twist.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli layers indulgent flavors with veggies and savory sausage.
• One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta is your go-to for quick weeknight comfort.
• Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake packs creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you stick with rotini or try another pasta? Maybe you went extra spicy on the Cajun? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome too—let’s help each other cook better and tastier.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners, creamy pasta ideas, and easy weeknight meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken is the ultimate dish when you’re craving creamy, spicy, and comforting all in one bite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing dinner guests, this pasta brings it home every time.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?