Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken spaghetti blends everything I crave in a cozy pasta dinner tender chicken with a golden cheesy crust Cajun spices melting into a silky sauce and the kind of bold flavor that makes everyone come running to the table for seconds Every bite takes me right back to that first cold night I tried this with friends and watched all conversation stop as the first forkfuls disappeared

I remember making this for a get together on a chilly evening My friends went quiet then burst out with requests for second helpings There is just something about that Cajun kick with cheesy chicken that feels like a treat

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: slicing keeps cook time fast and the chicken stays juicy with all the sauce
• Spaghetti: classic pasta shape to hold every bit of sauce bronze cut has great bite so look for that if you can
• Olive oil: adds richness to the pan and helps the chicken sear perfectly fresh oil gives better flavor
• Salted butter: brings layers of creamy flavor use the best quality you can for really silky results
• Garlic: fresh mince makes the base fragrant firm cloves give the boldest taste
• Cajun seasoning: smoky spicy depth try making your own blend for even more flavor control
• Smoked paprika: for background warmth and color Spanish smoked paprika is authentic and vibrant
• Salt and cracked black pepper: to sharpen and balance the flavors always season carefully
• Parmesan cheese: grated for the golden chicken crust and whisked into the sauce real Parmigiano Reggiano makes all the difference
• Heavy cream: gives the sauce its luxurious body go with full fat for lusciousness
• Low sodium chicken broth: adds savory depth and lightens the sauce a bit a quality broth shines through
• Mozzarella: melts smooth and creamy for that cheesy pull whole milk versions work best
• Sharp cheddar: adds a gentle tang and color shred yours for better melting
• Cream cheese: softens the richness and makes every bite silky higher quality cream cheese tastes better
• Italian seasoning and dried basil: for bright herby notes use fresher batches for flavor
• Crushed red pepper flakes: only if you like a kick sprinkled lightly so you control the spice
• Fresh chopped parsley: stirred in right before serving lifts and freshens the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Fill your largest pot with water bring to a full boil and salt generously Drop in the spaghetti and let it cook until just al dente about ten minutes Drain well then toss with a little olive oil to keep the noodles from sticking together Set aside nearby

Season and Crust the Chicken:

Pat sliced chicken pieces extra dry with paper towels so that the spices and cheese will coat and stick Rub all sides well with Cajun seasoning smoked paprika salt and pepper Gently press grated Parmesan onto each piece making sure it adheres

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and two tablespoons of butter together in a large skillet over medium high Add chicken strips in a single layer and let them cook for four to six minutes turning as needed for a golden brown crust During the last minute toss in one tablespoon of butter and half your minced garlic Stir just until the garlic is fragrant and the chicken finishes cooking Transfer the chicken to a plate covered loosely to keep warm

Build the Cajun Parmesan Sauce:

Add your remaining butter to the empty skillet and swirl in the rest of the garlic letting it sizzle briefly Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth whisking up all the brown bits from the pan Let this simmer gently to come together

Melt in the Cheeses:

Drop cream cheese in chunks and whisk until fully melted with no lumps Start adding mozzarella cheddar and more Parmesan a bit at a time stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth Stir in Italian seasoning dried basil and red pepper flakes if you want a spicier sauce Taste and add more salt or pepper as needed

Thicken the Sauce:

Let the cheesy sauce bubble on low for two to three minutes so it thickens up and becomes extra rich Watch closely so it does not get stringy

Finish with Pasta:

Add cooked spaghetti right into the skillet with the sauce Use tongs to toss and coat every strand Let it warm over low heat for another minute so the pasta soaks up all the flavors

Serve and Garnish:

Twirl out portions of creamy spaghetti onto plates Lay Parmesan crusted chicken strips over the top Scatter with lots of fresh parsley and even more grated Parmesan if you wish

Pin

Real Parmigiano Reggiano is my not so secret ingredient It brings a nutty punch that is worth the splurge My family teases me for scraping the pot every time we make this There is never any sauce left behind

Storing and Reheating

Let leftovers cool then stash in the fridge in a sealed container for up to three days Add a splash of milk or broth before gently reheating on the stovetop This keeps the chicken moist and the sauce silky

Ingredient Swaps

No spaghetti on hand Try linguine fettuccine or penne Melty mozzarella can be swapped for Monterey Jack or provolone If you do not have Cajun spice blend together paprika garlic powder chili powder and a pinch of cayenne to make your own

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this family style on a platter with a heap of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top For an extra festive table add a squeeze of lemon and a side of roasted cherry tomatoes Crusty bread for cleaning plates is always a hit

Pin

Cajun Pasta Traditions

This dish is inspired by classic southern flavors bringing together Italian style creamy pasta with Cajun spices Many southern families embrace cheese and bold seasoning for their celebratory dinners and this recipe reminds me of comfort food traditions with a modern twist

Recipe FAQs

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

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

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, linguine, or short pastas like penne work well as substitutes, allowing the sauce to cling nicely for a satisfying bite.

→ What makes the sauce creamy and smooth?

The combination of heavy cream, chicken broth, cream cheese, and a blend of mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses creates a velvety, rich sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

→ How can I control the spice level?

Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your taste. Omitting red pepper flakes will reduce heat, while adding more will bring extra warmth.

→ What is the best way to serve and garnish?

Plate the creamy pasta with the golden Parmesan chicken strips on top, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and brightness. A squeeze of lemon or extra Parmesan can enhance flavors further.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture while keeping the chicken moist.