This Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal for a busy weeknight. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich tomato-broth base. This quick and easy recipe delivers big flavors and is sure to satisfy the whole family. Plus, it all cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced chicken over medium heat until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and rotini pasta. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
- Add Vegetables: You can add bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost the veggie content.
- Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the garlic and onion.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the rotini pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream along with the cheese.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the dish needs extra moisture.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to swap out rotini for any other pasta shape, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the pasta. - Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but be sure to thaw it fully before dicing and cooking. If you use frozen chicken, it may need additional cooking time. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat gently on the stove with a little extra broth or water to prevent it from drying out. - Can I substitute the chicken broth with something else?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water, though the flavor may be a bit lighter. - What can I serve with this dish?
This cheesy skillet is a full meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or some garlic bread for extra deliciousness. - Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or leftover chicken. Just skip the cooking step for the chicken and add it along with the tomatoes and broth to heat through. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add some diced green chilies, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to give it a bit of heat. - Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully for a quick lunch or dinner. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove. - Can I add more cheese to make it extra cheesy?
Definitely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese for an extra indulgent dish.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for busy nights when you need something quick and satisfying. With tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and pasta all in one skillet, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this skillet meal will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, flavorful rotini pasta, and melted cheddar cheese in a rich, comforting sauce. With a savory base of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a hint of garlic and onion, this dish is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced chicken over medium heat until no longer pink.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and rotini pasta. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if rotini isn’t available.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when stirring in the tomatoes.
- To make this dish even creamier, stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream after adding the chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes