Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Cajun Cream

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Enjoy tender strips of Parmesan-crusted chicken layered over spaghetti bathed in a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce. Savory garlic, smoked paprika, and bold Cajun seasoning blend seamlessly with three luxurious cheeses—Parmesan, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar—to create a luscious, velvety coating for each strand of pasta. Crisped on the outside, the chicken delivers juicy flavor with a cheesy crust, while the creamy sauce delivers just the right amount of heat. Finished with fragrant herbs and a touch of red pepper, this dish is hearty, comforting, and vibrant enough to impress at any table. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Mon, 11 Aug 2025 17:21:58 GMT
A plate of garlic Parmesan chicken spaghetti in spicy Cajun cream sauce. Save
A plate of garlic Parmesan chicken spaghetti in spicy Cajun cream sauce. | lilicooks.com

This garlic parmesan chicken spaghetti brings together creamy Cajun flavors, crispy parmesan-crusted chicken, and tender pasta for the ultimate comfort dish. It is rich and bold with just the right note of spice and layers of cheesy goodness in every forkful.

My family absolutely devours this whenever I make it. The parmesan crust on the chicken is everyone’s favorite part and the leftovers disappear by lunchtime the next day.

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Slicing these thin keeps them juicy and lets the parmesan crust get extra crispy
  • Spaghetti: Look for a brand that stays firm after boiling for the best texture
  • Olive oil: A light coating keeps the pasta from sticking and ensures that golden sear on chicken
  • Salted butter: Adds richness and helps deliver that velvety sauce finish
  • Fresh garlic: More pungent than jarred garlic and brings warmth to every bite
  • Cajun seasoning: Choose a blend with chili for robust spice but watch the salt content
  • Smoked paprika: For depth and a subtle smoky flavor opt for a Spanish variety if possible
  • Salt and cracked black pepper: Fresh cracked lifts the aromas compared to ground
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for both the chicken coating and adding nutty flavor to the sauce Use true Parmigiano Reggiano if you can
  • Heavy cream: This is the base of the cream sauce look for one with highest fat content for the silkiest results
  • Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce from getting too salty and rounds out the flavor
  • Shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese: Melting qualities are key here Use blocks and shred just before adding for best melt
  • Cream cheese: Softened to incorporate smoothly into the sauce and make it extra creamy
  • Italian seasoning and dried basil: For a touch of herby background
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but a little kick takes the dish to the next level
  • Fresh chopped parsley: Brings color and a fresh bite to finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil Add the spaghetti and cook just until al dente about one minute less than the package suggests Drain then toss with a little olive oil so noodles stay loose
Season and Crust the Chicken:
Blot the chicken dry with a paper towel Then sprinkle all over with Cajun seasoning smoked paprika salt and pepper Spread grated parmesan in a shallow dish and press each piece of chicken into it covering both sides
Sear the Chicken:
Set a heavy skillet over medium high heat Add olive oil and two tablespoons of butter Once sizzling lay in the chicken without crowding Sear about four minutes per side until golden crisp and just cooked through Add one more tablespoon of butter and half the garlic during the final minute Swirl to coat chicken then remove pieces to a plate
Start the Sauce:
Into the same skillet drop in the last tablespoon of butter Add the remaining garlic and cook for thirty seconds until fragrant but not brown
Build Creamy Cheese Sauce:
Slowly pour in heavy cream and chicken broth Stir to combine and bring to a low simmer Add the softened cream cheese and whisk continuously as it melts for a smooth texture Then scatter in the shredded mozzarella sharp cheddar and remaining parmesan Stir slowly until all cheeses are melted and sauce is thick and glossy Season with Italian herbs basil and red pepper flakes for extra warmth Then taste and adjust salt and pepper
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add drained spaghetti right into the skillet Toss with tongs so all noodles are coated in the sauce Let it sit over very low heat for a minute to absorb the flavor
Finish and Serve:
To serve twirl creamy cheesy spaghetti onto plates and pile with slices of parmesan-crusted chicken Sprinkle fresh parsley for brightness and bring right to the table while hot
A plate of chicken and noodles with Parmesan cheese. Save
A plate of chicken and noodles with Parmesan cheese. | lilicooks.com

My favorite thing about making this recipe is pressing real Parmigiano onto the chicken and watching it caramelize Sometimes my son stands right by the stove waiting to sneak the first crispy piece This dish has become our favorite comfort ritual on cold nights

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container chilled for up to three days The sauce may thicken but a splash of milk and a gentle reheat on the stovetop will revive its creamy texture Avoid microwaving the chicken to keep the parmesan crust crispy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap spaghetti for linguine or even penne if you prefer For a lighter version use half and half instead of heavy cream Sub boneless chicken thighs for a richer taste or even shrimp for a seafood spin If you have only pre-shredded cheese add it just a little at a time to encourage smooth melting

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or a lemony arugula salad to round out the meal This creamy pasta holds up well alongside roasted broccoli or asparagus For extra brightness squeeze a bit of fresh lemon over the finished plate at the table

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred as they cook quickly and absorb the seasonings well, but thighs can be used for a richer flavor.

→ How spicy is the Cajun cream sauce?

The sauce has a mild to moderate heat from Cajun seasoning and optional red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

→ Can I substitute the cheeses?

Yes, use similar melting cheeses if desired. Fontina or provolone can be swapped for mozzarella or cheddar without changing the creamy texture.

→ How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking?

Lightly tossing the drained spaghetti with olive oil helps prevent clumping before mixing it into the sauce.

→ What sides go well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balance the creamy, spicy flavors. Garlic bread also pairs nicely.

→ Can I make this dish ahead?

Prepare the components in advance and combine just before serving to keep the chicken juicy and the sauce silky.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Tender chicken in Cajun-spiced creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with spaghetti for a satisfying, flavorful meal.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
30 min
Overall Time
45 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
02 12 oz spaghetti

→ Cooking Oils and Butter

03 1 tbsp olive oil
04 4 tbsp salted butter, divided

→ Seasonings and Spices

05 5 cloves garlic, minced
06 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
07 1 tsp smoked paprika
08 1 tsp salt
09 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
10 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
11 ½ tsp dried basil
12 ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Cheeses

13 ½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken)
14 1½ cups heavy cream
15 ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
16 1 cup shredded mozzarella
17 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
18 ¾ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
19 2 oz cream cheese, softened

→ Garnish

20 Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Steps

Step 01

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil, and set aside so it doesn’t stick.

Step 02

Pat the chicken dry, then season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press the grated Parmesan onto the chicken pieces to create a light crust.

Step 03

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 4–6 minutes, flipping as needed, until the pieces are cooked through and golden. Toss in 1 tablespoon of butter and half of the garlic during the last minute of cooking. Stir and cook until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 04

In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the rest of the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring it to a simmer.

Step 05

Whisk in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Slowly stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Step 06

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Use tongs to toss and coat the pasta thoroughly. Let it sit over low heat for another minute to absorb the flavors.

Step 07

Plate the cheesy spaghetti and top it with the Parmesan-crusted chicken strips. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Required Tools

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Dairy
  • Gluten

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 645
  • Fats: 35 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Proteins: 34 g