Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti with Cajun Cream Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 45 minutes
• Rich, creamy sauce with bold Cajun flavor
• Crispy parmesan-crusted chicken
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect comfort food for the whole family

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, divided

Seasonings

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Cheese & Sauce

• ½ cup grated Parmesan (for chicken crust)
• 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

Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

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 and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken strips dry. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press grated Parmesan onto both sides to form a light crust.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Add 1 tablespoon butter and half the garlic during the last minute. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Start the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add remaining garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Build the Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth. Slowly stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
6. Season the Sauce: Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes until thick and glossy.
7. Combine Pasta: Add spaghetti directly into the sauce. Toss gently until fully coated.
8. Serve: Plate the creamy spaghetti and top with sliced parmesan-crusted chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread, roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a fresh green salad. A squeeze of lemon just before serving adds brightness.

Pro Tips

• Grate cheese fresh for the smoothest sauce
• Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy
• Finish cooking pasta in the sauce for maximum flavor
• Adjust Cajun seasoning for your preferred spice level

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.