Description
Craving a bold and comforting dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough to impress? Cajun Chicken Rotini in Creamy Mozzarella Velveeta Sauce is the answer. Perfectly spiced chicken seared to golden perfection is paired with tender rotini pasta, all coated in a rich, gooey cheese sauce made with Velveeta and mozzarella. This easy recipe is ideal for dinner ideas, cheesy food lovers, and anyone searching for a creamy, spicy, and satisfying meal. From simple weeknight dinners to comfort food cravings, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort—exactly the kind of easy dinner or food idea that becomes a regular favorite.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 ounces rotini pasta
Water, for boiling
Salt, for pasta water
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
6 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
4. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds.
5. Pour in heavy cream and milk. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted.
6. Add mozzarella and stir until smooth and creamy. Season with black pepper, paprika, and parsley.
7. Add cooked rotini to the sauce, tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust thickness if needed.
8. Return chicken to the pan and stir or arrange over the pasta. Warm through for 1–2 minutes.
9. Garnish with extra parsley or Cajun spice if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Use freshly shredded mozzarella for best melting results.
Keep the heat low when melting Velveeta to prevent separation.
Add a splash of milk or pasta water when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Cajun pasta, cheesy rotini, creamy chicken pasta, spicy chicken dinner, easy dinner ideas