Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rotini (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Bites

01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
08 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

→ Creamy Rotini

09 - 1 lb rotini pasta
10 - 4 tbsp butter
11 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 2 cups heavy cream
13 - 1 cup chicken broth
14 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
15 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
16 - 1/4 cup milk (optional, to loosen the sauce)
17 - Salt and pepper to taste
18 - Chopped chives for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan. Mix well to coat the chicken. Add the flour and toss to create a light crust.
02 - Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
05 - Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring occasionally. Allow the mixture to gently simmer.
06 - Lower the heat and add mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Adjust thickness by adding milk if necessary. Season with salt and pepper.
07 - Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and gently mix to coat the pasta in the sauce.
08 - Serve the creamy rotini on plates or in bowls, topped with the seared chicken bites. Garnish with additional Parmesan and chopped chives, if desired.