Description
Looking for a bold, comforting dinner idea that doesn’t take hours? This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Twisted Pasta brings together juicy, spice-rubbed chicken with creamy, cheesy rotini in the most satisfying way. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights and flavorful enough to feel like a weekend treat. Whether you’re into spicy food ideas or need easy recipe inspiration, this dish delivers big-time flavor with simple steps. Great for quick dinners, meal prep, or whenever you want something both indulgent and easy.
Ingredients
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional garnish)
8 ounces rotini pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with Cajun seasoning. Let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove and rest.
3. Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet (don’t clean), reduce heat to medium. Add butter if needed, then stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer gently, then add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Add pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavor.
7. Slice the rested chicken and serve over or alongside the creamy pasta.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother than pre-shredded.
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, Cajun chicken, quick dinner, comfort food