As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of garlic and Cajun spices filled the air, transporting me to the heart of Southern comfort food. Today, I’m excited to share my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti with Cajun Cream Sauce—a dish that’s not only creamy and delightful but also an absolute crowd-pleaser. With tender chicken, a crispy parmesan crust, and zesty Cajun flavors, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. The best part? It’s quick to whip up, allowing you to savor a rich, homemade experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to dive into this comforting bowl of deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti amazing?
Comforting Flavors: Every bite is a delightful marriage of creamy sauce and zesty Cajun spices, creating an irresistible comfort food sensation.
Quick Prep Time: You can have this hearty dish ready in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknight dinners.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or use gluten-free pasta, allowing everyone to enjoy this recipe regardless of dietary preferences.
Impressive Presentation: The crispy parmesan chicken atop a bed of luscious spaghetti not only tastes fabulous but looks stunning for impressing your guests!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish, ensuring it quickly becomes a family favorite, just like our Garlic Butter Chicken or Cheesy Garlic Chicken recipes.
Dive into this vibrant dish and discover why it’s destined for your regular dinner rotation!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti Ingredients
• Gather everything you need for this delightful dish!
For the Chicken
- Thinly Sliced Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless make for easy prep and a tender bite.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (for crusting) – Creates a crispy chicken coating that elevates the dish.
For the Spaghetti
- Spaghetti – The perfect base; substitute with a hearty penne or fettuccine if desired.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing chicken and preventing spaghetti from clumping.
- Salted Butter – Adds richness to both the chicken and sauce; unsalted works too!
For the Sauce
- Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic delivers an aromatic punch; use it generously!
- Heavy Cream – This is the heart of the creamy sauce; alternatives may dilute flavor.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Enhances flavor without added salt; vegetable broth is a great swap.
- Shredded Mozzarella – Melts beautifully for added creaminess; Monterey Jack is an excellent alternative.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar – Adds a sharp bite; optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor.
- Cream Cheese (softened) – For a luxurious, creamy texture in the sauce; you can omit for a lighter version.
For Seasoning
- Cajun Seasoning – Brings that zesty kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses a delightful smoky flavor; regular paprika can work in a pinch.
- Italian Seasoning – Balances the dish with a blend of herbs; fresh herbs can enhance the flavors.
- Dried Basil – Complements the cream sauce; fresh basil offers a bright freshness.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to satisfy your taste buds.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For an extra heat kick; omit for a milder flavor.
For Garnish
- Fresh Chopped Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; you can swap in chives for variety.
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti will surely impress while providing comfort in every creamy bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, then drizzle with a touch of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together, and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
While the spaghetti is cooking, pat the thinly sliced chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Next, press grated Parmesan cheese onto each piece of chicken, ensuring a nice coating for a crispy texture when cooked.
Step 3: Sear Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and half of the salted butter. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Sear for 4-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. In the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 4: Make Sauce
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside, covering it to keep warm. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and melt it over medium heat. Sauté another minced garlic clove until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Thicken Sauce
Whisk in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated and smooth. Gradually add shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season the creamy sauce with Italian seasoning, adjusting salt and spices to taste. Allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is thoroughly coated and warmed through, about 2-3 minutes on low heat. This helps the flavors meld, creating a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti that’s richly satisfying.
Step 7: Serve
To plate, divide the creamy spaghetti onto serving plates. Top generously with the sliced parmesan-crusted chicken for added appeal. Garnish each plate with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor, and serve hot for a comforting meal that delights every palate.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti
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Sear for Flavor: Ensure your chicken is seared nicely to enhance the flavor. A golden crust adds depth to your dish, so don’t rush this step!
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Perfect Pasta: Cook spaghetti just until al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up well in your creamy sauce.
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Creamy Consistency: To keep your sauce rich, whisk in cream cheese slowly and ensure your heat is low while adding cheese, preventing it from clumping.
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Cajun Control: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less Cajun seasoning. You can always add more later to reach your desired heat level.
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Vegetable Boost: Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious enhancement. Just sauté them with the garlic in the sauce for extra flavor.
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Leftover Love: For leftovers, reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Mixing chicken and pasta together enhances flavor melding and keeps it fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture while avoiding dryness.
Assembly Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider storing the sauce separately from the chicken and pasta to maintain each component’s best quality.
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti
Set the stage for a comforting meal that perfectly complements the rich, creamy flavors of this dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery slices of garlic bread are a classic pairing, perfect for savoring every bit of the delicious sauce.
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Crisp Green Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the pasta and adds freshness to your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies bring color and texture, enhancing your meal with a touch of sweetness and earthy flavors.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast that complements the warm spaghetti’s richness; plus, it’s easy to prepare!
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets offer a nutritious boost, while their slight bitterness cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the dish’s flavors without overwhelming, perfect for a cozy dinner feel.
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Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon over the whole dish for a zesty lift that brightens the creamy elements, making each bite feel lighter and more refreshing.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken by seasoning and crusting it with Parmesan up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. The creamy sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain quality, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth. When ready to serve, sauté the chicken until golden, combine it with the warmed spaghetti and sauce, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort, ready to impress your family!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and adapt it to your taste buds or dietary needs!
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Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist, perfect for a quick meal.
Shrimp cooks rapidly, so toss them in towards the end to avoid overcooking. You’ll love the fusion of flavors! -
Gluten-Free Pasta: Opt for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
There are loads of delicious alternatives available, including quinoa or chickpea pasta, that hold up beautifully in the sauce. -
Non-Dairy Cream: Use coconut cream or almond milk combined with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.
This substitution gives you a creamy texture with a hint of nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. -
Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color in your meal.
Simply sauté the veggies with garlic before adding the cream to create a wholesome and delightful combination. -
Cheese Blends: Experiment with different cheese varieties like feta or blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
You could also mix in goat cheese for a tangy, creamy experience that’ll make this dish even more indulgent. -
Spicy Cajun Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Making these adjustments can turn up the heat without sacrificing the creamy richness of the sauce. -
Lemon Zest: Adding fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice will brighten the dish, making it fresh and vibrant.
The acidity compliments the creaminess, balancing out flavors for a refreshing finish. -
Herb Variations: Try fresh dill, thyme, or tarragon to mix up the herbal notes in the sauce.
Fresh herbs bring a new dimension, making each bite exciting and filled with flavor, much like in our Cheesy Garlic Chicken.
Embrace the art of cooking by tailoring this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti to your taste, turning it into your delicious signature dish!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they are easy to prep and cook quickly. If you’re short on time, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works wonderfully as a convenient substitute.
How should I store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best flavor, combine the chicken and pasta together, which will help them stay fresh and enhance the taste when reheated.
Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, I suggest thawing in the fridge overnight and gently warming in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
How can I make this recipe less spicy for kids?
Very! You can control the spice level by reducing the amount of Cajun seasoning you use. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, adjusting to suit your family’s preferences. Alternatively, omit the crushed red pepper flakes entirely for a milder dish.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
While heavy cream provides a rich and creamy texture, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that this may slightly thin out the sauce. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! I often toss in spinach, bell peppers, or even peas for added nutrition and color. Simply sauté your chosen veggies in the skillet along with the garlic before adding the cream and broth to the sauce for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti with a Kick of Cajun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, then drizzle with a touch of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together, and set aside to keep warm.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, pat the thinly sliced chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Next, press grated Parmesan cheese onto each piece of chicken, ensuring a nice coating for a crispy texture when cooked.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and half of the salted butter. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Sear for 4-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. In the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside, covering it to keep warm. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and melt it over medium heat. Sauté another minced garlic clove until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Whisk in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated and smooth. Gradually add shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season the creamy sauce with Italian seasoning, adjusting salt and spices to taste. Allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is thoroughly coated and warmed through, about 2-3 minutes on low heat.
- To plate, divide the creamy spaghetti onto serving plates. Top generously with the sliced parmesan-crusted chicken for added appeal. Garnish each plate with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor, and serve hot.
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