Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce-A rich, cheesy pasta dish with golden Cajun-crusted chicken and a silky, spicy cream sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a flavor explosion that brings together the best of Southern spice and Italian indulgence. Tender strips of Cajun-seasoned chicken are pan-seared to golden perfection with a crispy Parmesan crust, then nestled into a bed of spaghetti drenched in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s creamy, cheesy, spicy, and utterly irresistible.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy date night, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Chicken & Pasta

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp salted butter, divided
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken)

Creamy Cajun Sauce

  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until just al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Pat chicken strips dry. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press grated Parmesan onto each piece to form a light crust.

3. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 4–6 minutes, flipping until golden and cooked through.
In the last minute of cooking, add 1 tbsp butter and half the garlic. Stir until fragrant. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add remaining garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Slowly stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted.
Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

5. Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce. Toss with tongs until fully coated. Let sit over low heat for 1–2 minutes to absorb flavor.

6. Serve

Plate the creamy Cajun spaghetti and top with golden chicken strips. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

  • Parmesan crust: Pressing Parmesan onto the chicken before searing adds a savory crunch and deep flavor.
  • Cream cheese magic: It adds body and silkiness to the sauce—don’t skip it!
  • Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
  • Make it ahead: Cook chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and combine when ready to serve.

Variations

  • Swap the pasta: Try linguine, fettuccine, or penne for a twist.
  • Add veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.
  • Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce cheese slightly.
  • Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add roasted cauliflower or chickpeas.

Presentation Ideas

  • Serve in wide pasta bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and cracked pepper.
  • Add a lemon wedge on the side for a citrusy contrast.
  • Pair with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Highlights (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 620
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g

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