Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The blend of Cajun spices and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously spicy and cheesy meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The dish shows two main parts on a white plate set on a white marbled surface: on the left, there are thick slices of grilled chicken breast with a rich browned, slightly crispy texture, speckled with green herbs, arranged in a neat row; on the right, a generous pile of creamy spaghetti pasta coated in a yellow sauce with visible flecks of green herbs and red chili flakes sprinkled on top, some sauce pooling slightly on the plate underneath the food. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips

12 oz spaghetti

1 tbsp olive oil

4 tbsp salted butter, divided

5 cloves garlic, minced

1½ tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp salt

⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crusting)

1½ cups heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)

1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside.

Step 2: In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken strips in the mixture.

Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

Step 5: Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 6: Add ½ cup Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Return chicken and spaghetti to the skillet. Toss until everything is fully coated in the sauce.

Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Replace chicken breasts with shrimp or sausage for a different protein option.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoother sauce texture.

To lighten the dish, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a reduced-fat cream.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, dried parsley can be used, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavor to develop. Fresh parsley adds a brighter, fresher finish when used as a garnish.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free spaghetti or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Ensure that the Cajun seasoning and chicken broth you use are also gluten-free.