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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti Cajun

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Savor tender chicken breast with a golden Parmesan crust, seared to perfection and served atop spaghetti tossed in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. The dish comes together with a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses melted into a rich sauce, laced with garlic, smoked paprika, and a splash of chicken broth for depth. A hint of red pepper flakes brings gentle heat, balanced by the fresh finish of Italian herbs and chopped parsley. Perfectly al dente pasta soaks up every bit of the creamy, flavorful sauce, making each bite comforting and bold with Southern flair.

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Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Tue, 12 Aug 2025 01:33:25 GMT
A plate of food with chicken and spaghetti. Save
A plate of food with chicken and spaghetti. | lilicooks.com

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken spaghetti brings together everything I crave in a cozy pasta dish robust Cajun spices buttery seared chicken and a velvety cheesy sauce that wraps each strand of spaghetti in bold flavor the kind of meal that has everyone at the table requesting seconds and wiping the plates clean

I remember making this on a chilly night with friends everyone went quiet after the first bite except for happy sighs This has become my number one dish for feeding a hungry crowd or just spoiling myself

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: slicing ensures quick even cooking and the juicy chicken soaks up the spices
  • Spaghetti: classic shape to catch all that creamy sauce look for bronze cut pasta for the best texture
  • Olive oil: adds a fruity flavor and helps the chicken sear beautifully pick a fresh bottle for this
  • Salted butter: divides up for layers of rich flavor high quality butter makes a noticeable difference
  • Garlic: use fresh mince for the boldest aroma firm cloves are best
  • Cajun seasoning: smoky and spicy with a wellrounded depth try homemade for maximum control
  • Smoked paprika: brings deep smokiness choose Spanish smoked paprika for authenticity
  • Salt and cracked black pepper: enhance and balance the flavors always season to taste
  • Parmesan cheese: grated for crusting the chicken and more for the sauce real ParmigianoReggiano packs a punch
  • Heavy cream: forms the base of the sauce use fullfat for velvety richness
  • Lowsodium chicken broth: helps thin out the sauce while adding savory depth pick a goodquality broth
  • Mozzarella: melts beautifully for that satisfying cheese pull whole milk mozzarella is creamiest
  • Sharp cheddar: adds tang and color freshly shredded melts best
  • Cream cheese: softened for extra silkiness quality cream cheese makes it extra luscious
  • Italian seasoning and dried basil: layer on herb notes go for fresh dried herbs for the brightest flavor
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: optional for extra kick use if you enjoy some heat
  • Fresh chopped parsley: for a burst of color and freshness add just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a full rolling boil Stir in the spaghetti and cook until just al dente this usually takes about 10 minutes Drain well then toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking Set aside
Season and Crust the Chicken:
Pat the sliced chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a golden crust Generously season each piece with Cajun seasoning smoked paprika salt and black pepper Press grated Parmesan onto the chicken so it sticks as a flavorful crust
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium high Add chicken strips to the pan in a single layer Sear for about four to six minutes turning occasionally so each side is golden and cooked through During the last minute toss in one tablespoon of butter and half the minced garlic Stir so the garlic becomes fragrant and the chicken finishes in a bath of garlic butter Remove all chicken to a plate and keep it warm
Build the Cajun Parmesan Sauce:
Add the last tablespoon of butter to the skillet Swirl in the remaining garlic and sauté for just thirty seconds Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth whisking to fully combine Let it come to a gentle simmer
Melt in the Cheeses:
Drop in the cream cheese Whisk until it is fully melted and there are no lumps Slowly fold in mozzarella sharp cheddar and more grated Parmesan Stir constantly until the sauce is completely smooth Add Italian seasoning dried basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a feisty kick Taste and tweak salt and pepper as needed
Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce bubble lightly for two to three more minutes This time helps it achieve a thick luxurious texture
Finish with Pasta:
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet Toss well with tongs so the pasta is coated with all the Cajun cheesy goodness Let it sit over low heat for another minute to absorb even more flavor
Serve and Garnish:
Twirl the creamy Cajun spaghetti onto plates Lay the golden Parmesan chicken strips over top Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright finishing touch
A plate of food with garlic Parmesan chicken and spaghetti in spicy Cajun cream sauce. Save
A plate of food with garlic Parmesan chicken and spaghetti in spicy Cajun cream sauce. | lilicooks.com

You Must Know

I always look forward to using real ParmigianoReggiano for this recipe it is a special treat that brings nutty rich flavor My family still jokes about the first time I made this and we all kept going back to the stove for more even after dinner was done not willing to let a spoonful of sauce go to waste

Storing and Reheating

Let leftovers cool to room temperature then transfer to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days When reheating add a splash of milk or broth and reheat gently to loosen the sauce The chicken stays moist when warmed over low heat

Ingredient Swaps

If you are out of spaghetti try linguine or fettuccine Penne works well too For cheese any melty white cheese can sub in for mozzarella or cheddar If you do not have Cajun seasoning blend smoked paprika garlic powder chili powder and a pinch of cayenne

Plating Ideas

I love serving this family style on a big platter with extra parsley and more grated Parmesan For a festive touch add a squeeze of lemon and roasted cherry tomatoes on the side Crusty bread is always welcome for swiping up the last of the sauce

A plate of food with garlic Parmesan chicken and spaghetti in a spicy Cajun cream sauce. Save
A plate of food with garlic Parmesan chicken and spaghetti in a spicy Cajun cream sauce. | lilicooks.com

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I get a flavorful Parmesan crust on the chicken?

Press grated Parmesan firmly onto the seasoned chicken strips before searing. This creates a golden, savory crust as the cheese melts and browns in the skillet.

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti works well, you can substitute fettuccine, linguine, or short pasta shapes to suit your preference.

→ What makes the sauce creamy and smooth?

The sauce combines heavy cream, chicken broth, and a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and creamy cream cheese for a rich, velvety texture.

→ How can I control the spice level?

Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to taste. Reduce or omit the red pepper for a milder flavor, or increase for extra heat.

→ What is the best way to serve and garnish?

Serve the pasta hot with sliced Parmesan chicken on top, finished with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful touch.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti Cajun

Crispy chicken and spaghetti in a creamy Cajun sauce, loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and melty cheese.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Overall Time
35 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: Cajun

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

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

→ Cooking Fats & Oils

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

→ Aromatics & Seasonings

05 5 cloves garlic, minced
06 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
07 1 tsp smoked paprika
08 1 tsp salt
09 ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

→ Cheeses

10 ½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken)
11 1½ cups heavy cream
12 ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
13 1 cup shredded mozzarella
14 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
15 ¾ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
16 2 oz cream cheese, softened

→ Herbs & Spices

17 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
18 ½ tsp dried basil
19 ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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 beautifully golden.

Step 04

Toss in 1 tablespoon of butter and half the garlic during the last minute of cooking. Stir until the garlic becomes buttery and fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 05

Drop the remaining tablespoon of butter into the same skillet. Add the rest of the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

Step 06

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring it to a simmer. Add the cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and smooth. Slowly stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 07

Add the cooked spaghetti straight into the sauce. Use tongs to toss and coat the pasta in the cheesy Cajun sauce. Let it sit over low heat for another minute to soak up the flavor.

Step 08

Plate the cheesy spaghetti and top it with the Parmesan chicken strips. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Required Tools

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Whisk

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: 820.5
  • Fats: 48.7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 62.3 g
  • Proteins: 39.2 g