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Spicy Cajun Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into thin strips
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • 4 tbsp salted butter, divided
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for coating chicken
For the Cream Sauce and Pasta
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese for sauce
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Tongs
  • Whisk
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling, salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Pat chicken strips dry. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese onto both sides of the chicken strips.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and sear for 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Step 4: During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tbsp butter and half of the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir until fragrant. Remove chicken and set aside.
  5. Step 5: Add the last 1 tbsp butter to the same skillet. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Step 6: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Step 7: Whisk in softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and ¾ cup grated Parmesan. Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  8. Step 8: Simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
  9. Step 9: Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat. Let simmer for one more minute to meld flavors.
  10. Step 10: Serve pasta topped with the crispy Parmesan chicken strips and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

This recipe is adaptable! Use fettuccine, linguine, or penne instead of spaghetti. Sauté mushrooms or bell peppers with the garlic for extra flavor. Adjust Cajun seasoning or omit red pepper flakes for less spice. Add white wine before the cream for a richer sauce.