How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo in Just 30 Minutes

Are you craving a comforting meal that you can prepare quickly? Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo is the answer! This delightful dish features tender chicken, spiraled pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that will leave your taste buds longing for more. In just 30 minutes, you can impress your family and friends with a meal that looks as good as it tastes. Let’s explore how to whip up this culinary delight!

Ingredients You Will Need

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for an amazing flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

• 12 oz twisted pasta (like rotini or fusilli)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra to taste)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 oz cream cheese (for added creaminess)

• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

  
  

With these ingredients on hand, you're set to create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step One: Cooking the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes 8 to 10 minutes. Check the package for exact cooking times. Cooking until al dente ensures the pasta holds its shape when mixed with the creamy sauce.

After draining the pasta in a colander, remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. This will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step Two: Searing the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to focus on the chicken. Season the sliced chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Sear for about 5 to 6 minutes until they are golden brown and completely cooked. This method of cooking locks in the juices, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Keep the flavorful bits left in the pan for the next step.

Step Three: Creating the Creamy Sauce

Let’s make the creamy sauce! In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing it to become fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of your sauce in a magical way.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate those tasty browned bits. This process, known as deglazing, enhances the sauce's overall taste.

Step Four: Mixing in the Cheeses

Now, lower the heat slightly and stir in the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Keep stirring until the cheeses have melted and you achieve a thick, creamy sauce. Aim for a velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up, ensuring it remains smooth and clings well to the pasta.

Step Five: Bringing It All Together

With the sauce ready, it’s time to unite the pasta and chicken. Add the cooked twisted pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in that cheesy Cajun Alfredo goodness. The magic happens here, as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Allow the dish to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting the pasta absorb the delicious sauce.

Step Six: Serving and Enjoying

At last, it’s time to serve! Garnish your creamy Cajun chicken twisted pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. If you want to add even more flavor, top it with an extra handful of mozzarella cheese. Serve it hot and be ready for compliments as everyone enjoys their first bite!

Expect to receive rave reviews as they savor the delightful blend of flavors and creamy texture.

Creamy Cajun chicken twisted pasta in a serving bowl, garnished with parsley

A Delicious 30-Minute Wonder

Now you know how to make Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo in just 30 minutes! Each forkful brings a wonderful mix of flavors and a creamy texture that’s sure to satisfy any craving.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something quick yet tasty. Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning to fit your spice tolerance. Cooking is all about making it your own, so get creative and enjoy the process!

So, gather your ingredients and start cooking! Bon appétit!