Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is a deliciously creamy and flavorful pasta dish. Tender strips of chicken are seasoned with Cajun spices and Parmesan, then pan-seared to a golden brown. Tossed with spaghetti in a rich, cheesy, and mildly spicy cream sauce featuring mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, and herbs, this recipe offers a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. Garnished with fresh parsley, it makes for a comforting yet sophisticated meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
0.5 cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken)

Pasta

12 oz spaghetti (whole grain or gluten-free options can be used)
1 tbsp olive oil

Sauce

4 tbsp salted butter, divided
5 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
3/4 cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

Fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

Preparation: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain the spaghetti and toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Season the chicken: While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. In a bowl, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken evenly with grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Add garlic and butter to chicken: In the last minute of cooking the chicken, add minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir well to combine the flavors, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce base: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the remaining minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently.
Add cheeses and seasonings: Stir in softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and 3/4 cup Parmesan until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to thicken for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked spaghetti in the creamy Cajun cheese sauce ensuring the noodles are thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
Serve: Plate the sauced spaghetti and top with the golden seared Parmesan crusted chicken strips. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes.
Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for the best flavor.
Whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti can be used as substitutes if desired.
Ensure chicken strips are thinly sliced for quicker, even cooking.
This dish is best served immediately to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Spaghetti, Cajun Cream Sauce, Creamy Pasta, Cajun Chicken, Cheesy Pasta, One Pan Meal