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The Ultimate One-Skillet Cheesy Chicken Rotini
Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience that brings the family together around the dinner table. This Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty, creamy, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken and perfectly cooked rotini pasta, all enveloped in a luxuriously rich and cheesy sauce made from a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. Everything comes together in a single skillet, which means more time to relax and less time doing dishes. It’s a foolproof, delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe History & Origin
While this exact recipe is a modern creation born from the need for convenience, it’s deeply rooted in the American culinary traditions of the mid-20th century. The rise of canned goods, like the “cream of chicken soup” used here, revolutionized home cooking, allowing for quick and easy casseroles and skillet meals. This dish is a cousin to classic American comfort foods like tuna noodle casserole and chicken à la king. It takes the beloved concept of macaroni and cheese—a staple since the 1930s—and elevates it with protein and a savory, herbed flavor profile, all while embracing the efficiency of one-pan cooking that became popular in the 1950s and remains a cornerstone of home cooking today.
Health & Nutritional Benefits
This dish isn’t just about indulgence; it also offers some nutritional value to fuel your day.
· Lean Protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair, and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
· Calcium-Rich: The generous amount of cheddar and mozzarella cheese provides a significant boost of calcium, crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
· Energy Source: Rotini pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy, helping you power through your day.
· Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base for adding nutrients. You can easily sneak in a cup of frozen peas, steamed broccoli florets, or chopped spinach for added vitamins and fiber.
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The Full Recipe
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Formation & Equipment Needed
· Formation: This dish is built in stages. First, the chicken is seared to lock in flavor. Then, the pasta is cooked directly in the flavorful broth and soup mixture, absorbing all the savory goodness. Finally, the cheese is melted in to create a cohesive, creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.
· Equipment:
· Large, deep skillet or sauté pan (12-inch with a lid is ideal)
· Wooden spoon or spatula
· Measuring cups and spoons
· Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
· 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
· 1 (12-16 ounce) package rotini pasta (or any short pasta like fusilli or penne)
· 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
· 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
· 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
· 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· 1 teaspoon garlic powder
· 1 teaspoon onion powder
· ½ teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions: The Method
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, toss the diced chicken with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate and set it aside.
3. Build the Sauce: To the same skillet (with the flavorful browned bits left from the chicken), reduce the heat to medium. Add the can of cream of chicken soup and the chicken broth.
4. Cook the Pasta: Whisk the soup and broth together until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the dry, uncooked rotini pasta to the skillet, stirring to ensure all the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Be sure to stir every 3-4 minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
6. Combine and Melt: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and stir in the cooked chicken. Turn off the heat. Gradually sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top, then stir vigorously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the skillet sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm directly from the skillet.
For the Lovers…
…of cheesy, comforting, one-pot meals, this recipe is a dream come true! It’s for the lovers of simple, wholesome food that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s for the parents who need a quick win on a hectic Tuesday and for the kids (and adults) who adore a gooey, cheesy pasta. It’s for anyone who believes that the best meals are the ones shared around a table, filled with laughter and the irresistible aroma of a home-cooked dinner.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Rotini Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s a reliable staple that delivers on every promise: it’s quick, easy, incredibly delicious, and requires minimal cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety, double-cheese sauce is pure comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your weekly rotation. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy