Garlic Chicken Rotini

This Garlic Chicken Rotini is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken, perfectly seasoned with a hint of Cajun spice. This dish is ideal for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Its standout qualities include the rich flavor from the spices and the ease of preparation, making it a go-to recipe for many home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of Cajun seasoning and cheese creates a savory experience that delights the taste buds.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Garlic Chicken Rotini, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Medium bowl
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to the perfect al dente consistency.
• Large skillet: Allows for evenly cooking chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.

Ingredients

For this Garlic Chicken Rotini, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 1 pound rotini pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, (divided)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, (divided)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, (divided)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, (minced)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (238 g) heavy cream
• ¾ cup (189 g) chicken broth
• 4 ounces cream cheese, (softened)
• 1 cup (113 g) pepper jack cheese, (shredded)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, (chopped)

How to Make Garlic Chicken Rotini

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (reserve 1 tablespoon for the sauce), paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once sizzling, add chicken in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then stir occasionally until all sides are golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (6-8 minutes total). Remove chicken and tent with foil.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base

Reduce heat to medium. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Create a Roux

Sprinkle in flour, reserved Cajun seasoning, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk for about 1 minute to form a roux.

Step 6: Add Liquid Ingredients

Slowly whisk in heavy cream and chicken broth until smooth. Simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese

Reduce heat to medium-low. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth, then stir in shredded pepper jack cheese until melted and sauce becomes thick and glossy. If the sauce is too thick, thin with reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 8: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss cooked rotini in the sauce until well-coated.

Step 9: Add Chicken Back In

Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Chicken Rotini!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Rotini

Garlic Chicken Rotini is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or just enjoying a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will enhance the experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve this dish directly from the skillet for a relaxed family meal.
• Pair it with garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Elegant Dinner Party

• Present Garlic Chicken Rotini in individual serving bowls for an upscale touch.
• Garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve with a side of mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette for balance.

Meal Prep Friendly

• Divide leftovers into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Top with additional pepper jack cheese before reheating for extra creaminess.

Kid-Friendly Option

• Offer the rotini alongside simple steamed vegetables like carrots or broccoli to encourage kids to eat their greens.
• Let children sprinkle their own cheese on top for added fun.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken Rotini

To ensure your Garlic Chicken Rotini turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be golden and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Cheese: While pepper jack adds spice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken Rotini

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Chicken Rotini can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Great for soaking up every drop!
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with Parmesan and croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the meal.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil and garlic, then roast until tender for a flavorful side.
5. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs pairs well, providing a neutral backdrop to the bold flavors of the rotini.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that cuts through the creaminess of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make mistakes when preparing Garlic Chicken Rotini. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta shapes hold sauces the same way. Stick with rotini for the best texture and flavor absorption.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: This starchy water is vital for adjusting sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining the pasta.
• Not seasoning properly: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you evenly coat your chicken and adjust seasoning in the sauce as needed.
• Skipping the garnishing step: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Don’t forget to garnish your dish for that extra pop!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Chicken Rotini

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Garlic Chicken Rotini

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly (about 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Chicken Rotini.

Can I use another type of cheese in Garlic Chicken Rotini?

You can substitute pepper jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How can I make Garlic Chicken Rotini healthier?

Consider using whole wheat rotini and low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories while maintaining taste.

What can I serve with Garlic Chicken Rotini?

Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken Rotini is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to customize according to your taste. You can add vegetables or swap out cheeses to create your unique spin on this comforting classic. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its creamy goodness!