This recipe is a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and spicy flavors all packed into one dish that’s both comforting and exciting. I first made this for a busy weeknight when I wanted something quick but with a bit of flair, and it quickly became a family favorite. The juicy, garlic Parmesan-crusted chicken pairs beautifully with the luscious three-cheese Cajun sauce coating every strand of spaghetti.
It’s indulgent yet easy enough to pull off even on hectic days. Plus, the subtle kick from the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika adds that smoky warmth that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a special treat.
Essential Elements and Equipment
Before you dive in, here’s what you’ll need to get this dish just right:
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably non-stick or cast iron) for cooking chicken and sauce
- A tong or a spaghetti fork to toss the pasta
- Whisk for smooth sauce blending
- Sharp knife and cutting board for prepping chicken and herbs
Ingredients that make this dish sing:
- Fresh garlic for that aromatic punch
- A blend of mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese for rich creaminess
- Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for warm spice and smoky depth
- Velvety heavy cream and softened cream cheese to create that luscious sauce base
What Makes This Recipe Work
- Crispy, cheesy chicken crust: Pressing grated Parmesan onto the seasoned chicken before searing creates a golden, flavorful crust that locks in juices and adds texture contrast.
- Balanced spicy cream sauce: The combo of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes brings heat without overpowering the creaminess from the cheese and cream.
- Three-cheese blend: Each cheese plays a role, mozzarella gives gooey stretch, cheddar adds sharpness, and Parmesan brings nutty depth. Together, they create a perfectly rich and thick sauce.
- Cooking pasta directly in the sauce: Tossing the al dente spaghetti straight into the creamy sauce helps every strand soak up flavor, making the dish cohesive and indulgent.
- Fresh herbs at the end: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dried herbs adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness and lifts the entire dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan (for the sauce)
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley or dried herbs, for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente according to package directions. Drain, toss lightly with a little olive oil, and set aside so it doesn’t stick.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Press the grated Parmesan onto each piece to create a light crust.
Step 3: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Step 4: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and half the minced garlic to the pan during the last minute of cooking the chicken. Stir until the garlic becomes fragrant and buttery. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 5: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Add the cream cheese, stirring constantly until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Step 8: Gradually stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, mixing until the sauce is thick, creamy, and glossy.
Step 9: Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 10: Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce, stirring to coat every strand evenly. Let it cook together on low heat for a minute or two to meld flavors.
Step 11: Plate the cheesy spaghetti and top with the crispy garlic Parmesan chicken strips. Garnish with fresh parsley or dried herbs for a pop of color and fresh aroma.
Variations You Can Try
There’s plenty of room to make this recipe your own. Here are some ideas to mix it up or suit your dietary preferences:
- Protein swaps: Swap the chicken strips for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different flavor and texture profile. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Vegetable add-ins: Boost the nutrition and color by stirring in sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms. These add natural sweetness and earthiness that complement the Cajun spices.
- Heat level: If you love spice, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. For a milder dish, reduce or omit these and stick with just the Cajun seasoning.
- Cheese alternatives: Try swapping mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a unique twist. Adding a bit of blue cheese crumbles can also add an unexpected tangy richness.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free spaghetti or pasta made from chickpeas or lentils to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture.
- Cream substitute: For a lighter sauce, replace half the heavy cream with whole milk or use a dairy-free cream alternative.
Experimenting with these variations lets you tailor the dish to what you love most or what you have on hand, making it perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve
This creamy, cheesy pasta is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate it further:
- A simple green salad tossed with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar provides a fresh, crisp contrast that cuts through the richness.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
- Warm garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce.
- For a lighter touch, serve alongside a tomato and cucumber salad dressed with olive oil and fresh herbs.
- Drinks like iced herbal tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a citrusy mocktail refresh the palate without overpowering the flavors.
These sides and beverages create balance and variety on the table, making the meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Tips for the Best Results
To make sure your dish comes out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken. Cook in batches if needed to get that nice golden crust without steaming the meat.
- Use fresh garlic whenever possible. It makes a huge difference in aroma and flavor.
- Reserve pasta water before draining. The starch helps loosen thick sauces while helping them cling to the pasta.
- Add cheese gradually to avoid clumping. Melt cheeses slowly over low heat, stirring often.
- Taste as you go when seasoning. The blend of spices and cheeses can be salty, so adjust gradually.
- Keep cooked pasta warm by tossing it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if you’re not serving immediately.
- Fresh herbs at the end brighten the dish and add a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to restore sauce consistency without drying out.
Following these pointers will help you master this dish and impress family and friends with ease.
Cooking Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Simmer the sauce gently; high heat can cause it to separate or scorch.
- Choose good-quality cheeses for the best flavor and melting properties.
- Pasta timing is key; cook al dente to maintain texture when tossed with the sauce.
- When searing chicken, let it develop a crust undisturbed before flipping to avoid tearing.
- If the sauce thickens too much as it cools, loosen it with reserved pasta water or a splash of broth.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 830
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Servings: 4
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and pasta separately and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
What can I substitute for Velveeta or cream cheese?
For a more natural alternative, use mascarpone or softened ricotta cheese. These provide creaminess without the processed texture of Velveeta.
How spicy is this dish?
The Cajun seasoning and optional red pepper flakes give it a mild to medium heat level. You can adjust the amount of spice to your preference or leave out the flakes for a gentler flavor.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Cream Sauce is one of those recipes that I always keep in my rotation. It hits every note, comforting, indulgent, and flavorful, while being surprisingly simple to pull together. The crispy, cheesy chicken paired with the rich, creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta creates a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize to your tastes or dietary needs, making it perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or entertaining friends. Give this recipe a try; I’m confident it will become a favorite in your home just like it did in mine.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan (for the sauce)
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley or dried herbs, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente according to package directions. Drain, toss lightly with a little olive oil, and set aside so it doesn’t stick.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Press the grated Parmesan onto each piece to create a light crust.
Step 3: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Step 4: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and half the minced garlic to the pan during the last minute of cooking the chicken. Stir until the garlic becomes fragrant and buttery. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 5: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Add the cream cheese, stirring constantly until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Step 8: Gradually stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, mixing until the sauce is thick, creamy, and glossy.
Step 9: Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 10: Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce, stirring to coat every strand evenly. Let it cook together on low heat for a minute or two to meld flavors.
Step 11: Plate the cheesy spaghetti and top with the crispy garlic Parmesan chicken strips. Garnish with fresh parsley or dried herbs for a pop of color and fresh aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 830
- Sodium: 750
- Fat: 50
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Protein: 45