Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti

This creamy Cajun chicken spaghetti is my go-to crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike The garlicky mozzarella sauce mixed with tender chicken and bold Cajun spices always hits the spot and tastes like comfort in a bowl

I first made this for a family movie night and everyone went back for seconds—even the picky eaters asked for leftovers the next day

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that absorbs all the seasoning well Look for firm fresh fillets for best results
• Olive oil: Helps the spices stick to the chicken and adds richness Choose extra-virgin for more flavor
• Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend Look for blends with paprika garlic and dried herbs
• Smoked paprika: Gives depth and a subtle smokiness Opt for a Spanish or Hungarian style for boldness
• Spaghetti: Classic pasta base Holds the creamy sauce well Stick to regular or whole wheat for more fiber
• Butter: Adds rich flavor to the sauce Use unsalted for better control over seasoning
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic boosts aroma and savoriness Choose firm unblemished cloves
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce Go for unbleached flour if possible
• Whole milk: Makes the sauce creamy and rich Use whole for best texture but two percent works in a pinch
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth to the white sauce
• Cream cheese: Melts into the sauce for a silky texture Soften first for easy blending
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey strings of cheese Buy block mozzarella and shred it for better melting performance
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Savory and salty boosts flavor freshly grated gives the best results
• Salt and black pepper: Adjusts the final taste of the sauce Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if you can
• Optional Red pepper flakes: For extra bold heat use with caution if serving kids

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Season the Chicken:

In a large mixing bowl coat the bite-sized pieces of chicken with olive oil Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika Be thorough so every piece is evenly covered Let this sit while prepping the pasta for more flavor

Cook the Pasta:

Boil a big pot of salted water Once rapidly boiling add spaghetti Cook until al dente usually about ten minutes Stir occasionally Drain and set aside but save a splash of pasta water for adjusting sauce if needed

Brown the Chicken:

Heat a skillet over medium-high Add the seasoned chicken Cook for six to eight minutes Stir occasionally so all sides brown well and chicken is fully cooked Remove from the pan and set aside

Build the Garlic Roux:

In the same skillet melt the butter over medium Add minced garlic Cook for one minute until it smells fragrant but do not let it brown

Make the Sauce Base:

Sprinkle in flour and stir thoroughly for about one minute The mixture will look pale and thick This step gives your sauce a silky body

Add Liquids for Creaminess:

Gradually whisk in whole milk and chicken broth Keep whisking so the flour blends in smoothly and no lumps form Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook three to four minutes until lightly thickened

Melt in the Cheeses:

Turn heat to low Add softened cream cheese Stir until fully incorporated and smooth Add one and a half cups mozzarella and all Parmesan cheese Keep stirring until melted and creamy

Season the Sauce:

Now taste the sauce Add salt black pepper and red pepper flakes if using Adjust seasoning so it fits your preference

Combine Pasta and Chicken:

Add the drained spaghetti and cooked chicken into skillet Toss everything until the sauce coats the chicken and noodles evenly

Broil for Melty Finish:

Transfer everything to an oven-safe pan or serving dish Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top Slide under broiler for two to three minutes just until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve hot right from the pan The aroma is irresistible

Save

My favorite part is mixing the cheeses into the sauce The mozzarella makes it stretchy and comforting while the Parmesan gives a punch of flavor Everyone in my family guarantees an empty plate whenever I make this The first time I lifted a forkful and that cheesy pull happened I knew it was a keeper

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers before storing Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce The pasta freezes okay but for best texture enjoy within the week

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs if you like more juiciness If you need a dairy free option try plant-based cream cheese and unsweetened plant milk For gluten free use your choice of GF pasta and a flour alternative that works for roux

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole-style dish alongside a crisp green salad and some crusty bread For parties put out bowls of extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes for people to customize Add roasted veggies or sautéed spinach to boost nutrition

A Taste of Cajun Comfort

Inspired by southern flavors Cajun seasoning brings just the right kick to this dish The creamy garlic cheese sauce is my favorite twist on classic spaghetti and keeps the whole family coming back for more Cajun pasta dishes have roots in Louisiana but with ingredients that are familiar and easy to find outside the South

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

Softening the cream cheese before adding, and slowly whisking in milk and broth will ensure a smooth, creamy sauce. Be sure to melt the cheeses completely before tossing with pasta.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or linguine all work well to hold the flavorful sauce and chicken chunks.

→ How spicy is this dish?

Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika add moderate heat. Adjust spice by controlling the amount of red pepper flakes and seasoning.

→ What can I serve alongside this pasta?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly, balancing out the richness of the creamy sauce.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent separation.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, combining with pasta just before serving for best texture and flavor.