Name: Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Twisted Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs; 10 oz rotini pasta; 1½ cups heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Twisted Pasta is the kind of indulgent comfort food that satisfies every craving. Tender, golden-seared chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices rests atop a bed of creamy rotini pasta tossed in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals that don’t skimp on flavor.

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Twisted Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers everything you want in a cozy, satisfying dinner: bold Cajun flavor, a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients that come together in a way that feels restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving guests, this recipe brings warmth, richness, and just the right kick of spice to the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breast or thighs
10 oz rotini pasta
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 4–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water.
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Use a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Slice the rested chicken and serve over the creamy pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicier Version: Add an extra pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Vegetable Boost: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes with the pasta.
Cheese Swap: Try adding a bit of mozzarella or asiago for a different flavor profile.
Protein Alternative: Use shrimp or sliced sausage instead of chicken for a fun twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute rotini with gluten-free pasta of your choice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce and maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and gives a creamier texture, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.

How spicy is this recipe?

The Cajun seasoning provides mild to moderate heat. You can adjust the spice by increasing or reducing the seasoning.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are great alternatives that hold the sauce well.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese can work as a lighter substitute, though the sauce will be less rich.

Can I make this dish ahead?

Yes, it reheats well. Store the chicken and pasta separately for best texture and reheat with a splash of cream or milk.

Is it better to use chicken breasts or thighs?

Both work well. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, while breasts are leaner.

How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?

Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency when tossing with the pasta.

What’s the best pan to sear the chicken?

A cast iron skillet provides excellent sear and flavor, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will do.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes. Bake seasoned chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked, then slice and serve over the pasta.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Fresh parsley is perfect, but basil or thyme also pair nicely with the creamy sauce and Cajun flavors.

Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Twisted Pasta is the ultimate feel-good meal that brings heat, richness, and comfort to the dinner table. With its quick prep, bold flavors, and creamy pasta base, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again—whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself to a hearty homemade dinner.