Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 12 ounces rotini pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional); Vegetable oil, for pan-frying

If there’s one dish I could eat on repeat without getting bored, it’s this Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo. The combination of bold, smoky Cajun spices crusted onto tender chicken, paired with ultra-creamy mozzarella Alfredo sauce hugging every twist of rotini pasta, makes this recipe pure comfort on a plate. It’s got just the right amount of spice, creaminess, and crunch — an irresistible trio that turns a simple dinner into something special.

I love making this dish when I want to impress without going overboard in the kitchen. The golden-browned chicken gives you that perfect crisp, while the gooey cheese pulls in the Alfredo sauce make it feel decadent. Whether it’s a family dinner or a night of self-care, this meal never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

This dish has a little bit of everything — crispy, juicy chicken, creamy cheesy pasta, and a Cajun kick that keeps your taste buds happy. It’s weeknight-friendly but also impressive enough for guests. Plus, the ingredients are mostly pantry staples, making it both easy and affordable. You’re getting a comforting dinner with gourmet flair — no reservations needed.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo?

I personally love using rotini or any twisted pasta for this recipe because it traps the creamy mozzarella Alfredo sauce in all its curves and ridges. That way, every bite is rich and satisfying. But don’t feel limited — penne, fusilli, or even cavatappi would work beautifully here. The key is choosing a pasta that holds sauce well and adds texture to the dish.

Options for Substitutions

Need to work with what you’ve got in the kitchen? No problem — this dish is super flexible.

Chicken: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless thighs if you want juicier meat, or use shrimp for a seafood spin.
Mozzarella: If you’re out of mozzarella, try a mix of provolone and parmesan for a similarly smooth and flavorful sauce.
Heavy cream: Half and half or whole milk can work in a pinch, just expect a slightly thinner sauce.
Cajun seasoning: You can DIY your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.
Gluten-free?: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and flour for dredging the chicken — this recipe adapts well.

With these swaps, you can tailor the dish to dietary needs or whatever’s already in your pantry.

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
These are the heart of the dish — tender, juicy, and perfect for soaking up that Cajun seasoning.
Cajun Seasoning
Adds bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor to the chicken. It’s the main seasoning that ties everything together.
All-Purpose Flour & Panko Breadcrumbs
Used for dredging the chicken to get that crispy, golden crust when pan-fried.
Eggs
Help bind the flour and breadcrumbs to the chicken.
Rotini Pasta (or other twisted pasta)
Holds the sauce perfectly with its curves, ensuring every bite is coated in creamy goodness.
Butter
Adds richness and is the base for starting the Alfredo sauce.
Garlic (minced)
Brings out deep aroma and flavor in the sauce.
Heavy Cream
Essential for that thick, luscious Alfredo texture.
Mozzarella Cheese
Melts into the cream to make a stretchy, velvety sauce — the star of the Alfredo.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty depth to balance the mozzarella.
Salt & Pepper
Brings balance and rounds out all the flavors.
Fresh Parsley (optional)
A touch of green on top adds freshness and a pop of color.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and slicing them in half lengthwise for thinner cutlets. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest on a paper towel-lined plate before slicing into strips.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Mozzarella Alfredo Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream and let it gently simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss until every twist is coated in that rich, creamy goodness. Keep the heat low so the sauce stays silky and doesn’t break.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Arrange the sliced Cajun chicken on the side of a generous serving of mozzarella Alfredo pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

How Long to Cook Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 35–40 minutes:

Chicken prep and cooking: 15–18 minutes
Pasta boiling: 10–12 minutes (can be done while chicken cooks)
Alfredo sauce: 5–7 minutes
Combining and final plating: 3–5 minutes

It’s a quick dinner that feels luxurious without the long prep time.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo

Use thin chicken cutlets: They cook faster and more evenly, staying juicy inside with a perfect crisp outside.
Let the oil get hot before frying: This helps seal the crust quickly and prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil.
Shred your own mozzarella: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly they melt.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce and has more bite.
Simmer the Alfredo gently: Avoid boiling — it can cause the cream to separate.
Reserve some pasta water: In case your sauce needs thinning, a splash of starchy water works wonders.
Let the chicken rest before slicing: This keeps the juices locked in, so the meat stays moist and flavorful.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Chicken
Cajun seasoning can burn quickly, so don’t crank the heat too high. Aim for medium-high and keep an eye on the crust — golden, not blackened.
Breaking the Alfredo Sauce
Adding cheese too quickly or overheating the cream can cause separation. Keep it at a low simmer and stir constantly while melting the cheese.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese
It doesn’t melt as well and can lead to a gritty texture. Always grate mozzarella and parmesan fresh for the creamiest sauce.
Skipping Seasoning Layers
Season each component — chicken, pasta water, and sauce — to build depth in the final flavor.
Overcooking the Pasta
Soft pasta turns mushy when mixed with hot sauce. Stick to al dente for the perfect bite.
Not Draining Chicken Properly
Let the fried chicken rest on paper towels to avoid excess oil making your dish greasy.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up leftover sauce from the plate.

Roasted Broccoli

A lightly charred, nutty-flavored side that balances the richness of the pasta.

Simple Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and parmesan — a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

Grilled Asparagus

Adds a smoky, earthy note that pairs well with the Cajun spices.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes — a cool, acidic bite to lighten the meal.

Chili Lime Corn on the Cob

A sweet and spicy combo that complements the Cajun heat.

Lemon-Honey Glazed Carrots

A sweet, citrusy vegetable side that adds color and brightness.

Iced Tea or Sparkling Water with Lemon

A crisp, refreshing drink that cools the heat and clears the palate.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them tasting great:

Refrigerator: Store the pasta and chicken in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken crispy and prevents it from getting soggy.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. The pasta and Alfredo sauce aren’t ideal for freezing, as cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed.
Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until heated through and crispy again.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: ~780
Protein: 45g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 44g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 165mg
Sodium: 920mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g

Note: These numbers are estimates and can vary based on the exact brands and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Just use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild version. You can also balance it with extra cream or cheese in the sauce to mellow the heat.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Just slice and reheat it with a bit of Cajun seasoning in a skillet before adding to the dish. It’s a great shortcut if you’re low on time.

Is there a way to make this sauce lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. The sauce will be thinner, but still flavorful. Add a bit of cream cheese to thicken if needed.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but keep it refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Reheat it slowly on low heat and stir constantly to prevent separating.

What’s the best pasta shape if I don’t have rotini?

Fusilli, penne, or cavatappi are great substitutes. You want a pasta that grabs onto sauce well.

How do I get the chicken crispy without deep frying?

Use a shallow pan with just enough oil to coat the bottom. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely. Replace the chicken with pan-seared tofu or roasted mushrooms and use a vegetarian Cajun blend.

What cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?

Fontina, provolone, or even a creamy gouda can work — just make sure the cheese melts smoothly for that luscious Alfredo texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Alfredo is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration on a plate — rich, bold, and comforting. It brings together crispy Cajun-spiced chicken and indulgent, cheesy Alfredo in a way that’s both cozy and impressive. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this meal hits all the right notes. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a regular in your kitchen rotation.