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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Creamy spaghetti tossed in a spicy Cajun cream sauce with tender garlic Parmesan chicken strips, blending bold Cajun flavors with rich Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes, optional for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Season chicken strips with 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes; remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, and thyme; cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Adjust with reserved pasta water if needed.
  5. Add cooked spaghetti and chicken to the sauce; toss to coat evenly. Simmer for 2 minutes to combine flavors. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For milder spice, reduce Cajun seasoning to 2 tsp. Use fresh grated Parmesan for best melting. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

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