Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

When you crave a pasta dish that delivers rich, creamy indulgence with a kick of spice, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is the answer. This recipe blends tender, juicy chicken breast with a luscious Parmesan-infused cream sauce, all coated in spaghetti that’s cooked to perfection. The Cajun seasoning gives it a smoky, slightly spicy profile that pairs beautifully with the savory depth of garlic and the nutty sharpness of Parmesan. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining at a cozy, upscale bistro—but you can whip it up right in your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something exciting yet comforting, or for impressing guests without hours of effort, this pasta will win you over bite after bite.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

  • 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  2. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.

  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  4. Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Add Liquids: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

  6. Add Cheese & Spice: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add crushed red pepper flakes if you want extra heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Combine Pasta & Chicken: Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained spaghetti. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.

  8. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley, serve immediately, and enjoy the creamy, spicy, cheesy goodness.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 4 servings, approximate)

  • Calories: 640

  • Protein: 39g

  • Fat: 31g

  • Saturated Fat: 16g

  • Carbohydrates: 53g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sugar: 3g

  • Sodium: 880mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect marriage of creamy indulgence and bold flavor. The Parmesan provides a rich, nutty base while the Cajun spice brings warmth and depth. It’s versatile—you can dial up the spice or tone it down depending on your taste—and it feels decadent enough for date night but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, the combination of garlic, butter, and cream creates a sauce so silky you’ll want to lick the plate clean.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

While traditional Cajun pasta is rooted in Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage, this recipe takes inspiration from both Cajun flavors and Italian creamy pasta traditions. The Cajun seasoning and paprika nod to the smoky, spicy dishes of the American South, while the Parmesan cream sauce draws on the Italian love for cheese-laden pasta. It’s a fusion that celebrates comfort food from two very different but equally delicious worlds.

Ingredient Spotlight

  • Chicken Breast: Lean and quick to cook, it soaks up the Cajun seasoning beautifully.

  • Cajun Seasoning: A flavorful blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne for that signature kick.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is a must for a smooth, creamy sauce.

  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, luxurious texture that clings to the pasta.

  • Spaghetti: Traditional long pasta ensures every bite is coated in sauce, though you could use linguine or fettuccine.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long as it can make the sauce oily. This dish isn’t ideal for freezing because cream sauces can separate when thawed, but if you must freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and reheat slowly.

Common Variations to Try

  • Shrimp Cajun Pasta: Swap the chicken for shrimp and reduce cooking time to just a few minutes.

  • Extra Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added color and nutrition.

  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly.

  • Four-Cheese Upgrade: Mix Parmesan with mozzarella, Asiago, and provolone for an ultra-cheesy sauce.

Pairing Recommendations

This pasta pairs well with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness. For drinks, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce, while an iced tea with lemon offers a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Health Benefits

While this is an indulgent dish, it offers a good amount of protein from the chicken and calcium from the Parmesan cheese. Using fresh garlic not only adds flavor but also provides antioxidants. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers boosts the fiber and vitamin content, making it a more balanced meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is the kind of pasta that satisfies both your comfort food cravings and your desire for bold flavors. It’s rich, creamy, and decadent, yet still has that irresistible spicy edge that keeps each bite exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The balance of smoky Cajun spice with the smooth, cheesy sauce is pure magic—and once you try it, it might just become one of your go-to pasta recipes.

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