Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe brings together bold flavors with a hint of spice, making it a perfect option for dinner any night of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make and requires simple ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal that satisfies your cravings, whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Plus, the combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crusting)
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp salted butter, divided
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken strips in this mixture.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until it is golden brown. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken and spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together until fully coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Serve this dish warm, directly from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor!
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be golden and cooked through but still tender.
- For added spice, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add more crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess in the sauce.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. Simply sauté them with the garlic to add more nutrition and color to your dish.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can use shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spice can be adjusted. If you prefer less heat, you can omit the crushed red pepper flakes and reduce the Cajun seasoning.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just combine them with the spaghetti when ready to serve.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and comforting dish with tender chicken, spaghetti, and a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crusting)
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp salted butter, divided
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken strips in this mixture.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until it is golden brown. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken and spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together until fully coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Serve warm with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
