Creamy Cajun Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Rotini
Ingredients:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 orange bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 medium red onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (I like Tony Chachere's)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 lb rotini pasta
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and red onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the cooked rotini pasta and toss to coat.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Broil and Serve: Transfer the rotini mixture to a large baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the butter. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6 | Calories: Approximately 650 per serving