It is a cold winter evening. You need a meal that feels like a hug. This Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini is exactly what you need. It is creamy, warm, and full of flavor.

This dish is a protein powerhouse. It uses a clever trick to stay healthy. You will love how easy it is to make. It is the perfect weeknight dinner for your family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total winner for your healthy reset. It packs a massive amount of protein into one bowl. The sauce is made from blended cottage cheese. It tastes just like a rich cream sauce. Your kids will never know the difference.

It is the ultimate comfort food for busy families. You can feel good about serving this meal. It is light yet very filling. The Cajun spices add a wonderful warmth. It is perfect for those cold winter nights. You only need simple pantry staples.

Simple Method

Making this meal is incredibly simple and fun. You do not need to be a pro chef. First, you boil your favorite whole wheat rotini. Then, you cook the chicken until it is golden. The blender creates a silky smooth sauce in seconds. Just stir it all together at the end.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses fresh ingredients and seasonal staples found in any kitchen.

450g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
224g whole wheat rotini pasta
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
225g low-fat cottage cheese
120ml unsweetened almond milk or skim milk
60g shredded low-fat sharp cheddar cheese
30g grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While pasta cooks, season chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 60 seconds until fragrant.
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, milk, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Blend until completely smooth.
Reduce skillet heat to low. Pour the blended cottage cheese sauce into the skillet with the chicken.
Add the cooked rotini, shredded cheddar, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
Stir continuously over low heat for 2-3 minutes until the cheeses are melted and the sauce coats the pasta thoroughly. Do not boil the sauce to prevent curdling.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this warm in large, cozy bowls. Garnish with plenty of fresh, green parsley. It looks beautiful on a winter dinner table. The colors are bright and very inviting. Pair it with a simple side salad. A piece of crusty bread is great for the sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for three days. To reheat, use the microwave or a pan. Add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Do not overheat the sauce or it might separate. It makes a fantastic high-protein lunch.

Recipe Tips

Blend the cottage cheese until it is perfectly smooth.
Do not skip the garlic for the best flavor.
Avoid boiling the sauce to prevent it from curdling.
Use whole wheat pasta for a boost of fiber.
Add a handful of spinach for a winter veggie boost.
Season the chicken well before it hits the pan.
Use a non-stick skillet for the easiest cleanup.

Easy Flavor Ideas

Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood version.
Use gluten-free rotini for a wheat-free meal.
Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Try smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor.

Common Questions

Can I use Greek yogurt instead?

You can, but the texture will be different. Cottage cheese blends into a much creamier sauce. It also has a milder flavor than yogurt. If you use yogurt, do not heat it much.

Is this recipe too spicy?

Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. If you have picky eaters, use less seasoning. You can start with just one tablespoon total. It is easy to customize for your family.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this is great for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers. When reheating, add a tiny bit of water or milk. This keeps the sauce silky and delicious.

I hope this cozy recipe brightens your winter evenings. Give it a try and let every creamy bite warm you up. Happy cooking!

— Lidia