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Parmesan Rotini with Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken

A comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy Parmesan rotini with spicy Cajun garlic butter chicken, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Opt for high-quality pasta for the best texture.
Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast, boneless & skinless Look for organic chicken whenever possible for the best flavor.
Seasoning
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is a must; use a microplane for finely minced garlic.
  • 2 tsp Cajun Seasoning Use a store-bought blend or make your own.
Sauce
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter, room temperature Ensure butter is at room temperature for even melting.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated.
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
  2. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce's thickness later.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  2. Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Remove the cooked chicken and garlic from the skillet. Add the remaining butter and heavy cream to the skillet, mixing well. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes.
Combining
  1. Add the cooked rotini and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
  2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning, if desired.
Garnishing
  1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Notes

For best results, make sure your butter is at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.