Description
Spicy Cajun Three-Cheese Chicken Spaghetti in Garlic Parmesan Cream is a delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of three cheeses with a kick of Cajun spice, making it a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner or special gathering. This creamy pasta dish features tender chicken and a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of spaghetti. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to impress both family and guests alike. Best of all, this recipe is easy to prepare in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy nights when you crave something comforting yet delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan, for the sauce
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh chopped parsley or dried herbs, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and toss with olive oil.
- Pat chicken dry and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press grated Parmesan onto each piece of chicken.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken strips for about 4-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of butter and half of the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well before removing chicken from heat, keeping it warm.
- Lower heat on the skillet. Add remaining butter along with garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Let simmer gently while stirring occasionally.
- Stir in softened cream cheese until fully smooth.
- Gradually mix in mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese until your sauce becomes thick and creamy.
- Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Toss cooked spaghetti into your creamy sauce mixture; cook on low heat for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Plate spaghetti topped with crispy chicken strips, garnished with fresh parsley or herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg