Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo in a bowl

Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo is a delightful meal that brings together comforting flavors and a hint of spice. This dish is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs wonderfully with the Cajun-seasoned chicken, creating a satisfying combination that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes!

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

Ingredients

  • 12 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli)
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
  2. Slice chicken into strips and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  5. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until smooth and melted.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Return pasta and chicken to the skillet and toss to coat. Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

Serve this delicious pasta hot, with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. You can top it with extra Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor if you like a little more heat!

How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens.

Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
  • You can use any type of pasta you have on hand; rotini and fusilli work well to hold the creamy sauce.
  • Adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning based on your preference.

Variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor twist.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken to save time. Just warm it in the skillet before adding the cream.