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This garlic Parmesan chicken spaghetti in spicy Cajun cream sauce is a wonderfully comforting dinner that brings bold flavors together in a creamy, indulgent pasta dish. Perfect for those nights when you want something rich but still packed with spice and savoriness, this recipe blends tender chicken with a luscious cheese sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. I first tried this during a weekend with friends, and the combination of sharp cheeses and Cajun spices quickly became a meal everyone requested again and again.
Ingredients
- Two large boneless skinless chicken breasts: sliced thin for quick cooking
- Spaghetti: provides a classic base for soaking up the sauce choose a quality brand for the best texture
- Olive oil: to sear the chicken and keep the pasta from sticking
- Salted butter: divided for richness in both chicken and sauce
- Five cloves garlic: minced to pack savory punch throughout the dish
- Cajun seasoning: gives the sauce its signature spice and depth
- Smoked paprika: adds a subtle smoky note that complements the Cajun flavors
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: balance the seasoning
- Grated Parmesan: for the chicken coating to create a crisp cheesy crust
- Heavy cream: for a smooth and rich base of the sauce
- Low-sodium chicken broth: to thin and add savory background flavor
- Shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar: bring melty cheese goodness and sharpness
- Additional grated Parmesan: enriches the cheesy sauce
- Cream cheese: softens the sauce and adds smooth texture
- Italian seasoning and dried basil: contribute aromatic herbal layers
- Crushed red pepper flakes: can be added for extra heat
- Fresh chopped parsley: for a fresh herbal garnish that brightens the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry to ensure it browns well then generously season with Cajun seasoning smoked paprika salt and pepper. Press grated Parmesan onto each piece to create a flavorful crust. Heat olive oil and two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for four to six minutes until golden and cooked through adding a tablespoon of butter and half the garlic in the last minute to infuse flavor. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Build the Sauce:
- In the same skillet add remaining butter and garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer then whisk in softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the Cheese:
- Gradually stir in mozzarella cheddar and Parmesan cheeses mixing until the sauce is thick and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning dried basil and optional red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Let simmer for another two to three minutes.
- Cook and Combine Pasta:
- Meanwhile boil spaghetti until just al dente then drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Add pasta directly to the sauce and use tongs to toss gently coating the noodles evenly with the cheesy Cajun sauce. Let it cook over low heat for an extra minute to soak up flavor.
- Plate and Garnish:
- Serve the creamy pasta topped with the Parmesan crusted chicken strips and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
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Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. This dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option though cooking time will be slightly longer. If you want less spice omit or reduce the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. Use part-skim cheeses if you prefer to lower fat content. Heavy cream can be swapped with half-and-half but the sauce will be lighter and less rich.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for brightness or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread is a classic side that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Finish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness.
Cultural Background
Cajun cuisine comes from Louisiana and is known for bold spices and hearty ingredients reflecting French Acadian roots. This dish is a fusion of classic Italian pasta with Cajun cream sauce and chicken which makes it a rich comfort meal that bridges south and Italian cooking traditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I achieve a crispy crust on the chicken?
Pressing grated Parmesan onto the seasoned chicken before searing creates a flavorful crust that crisps up nicely in the hot butter and oil.
- → What’s the best way to prevent spaghetti from sticking after cooking?
After draining, tossing the spaghetti lightly with olive oil keeps the strands separated and prevents sticking before combining with the sauce.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
Yes, you can omit or reduce the crushed red pepper flakes for milder heat, or increase the Cajun seasoning for a bolder kick.
- → Why use a combination of cheeses in the sauce?
Mixing mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan creates a balanced, creamy texture with a rich, tangy flavor profile that complements the spices.
- → How do I thicken the cream sauce properly?
Simmering the sauce gently after adding the cheeses allows it to reduce and thicken naturally, resulting in a luscious coating for the pasta.
- → What’s an ideal substitute for heavy cream if unavailable?
Whole milk combined with a bit of melted butter can work in a pinch, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.