Garlic Parmesan Cajun Chicken Pasta (Print)
Creamy garlic Parmesan pasta with Cajun-spiced chicken for a bold flavor upgrade.
# Ingredients:
01 -
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
02 -
12 oz spaghetti
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
4 tbsp salted butter, divided
05 -
5 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
07 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
08 -
1 tsp salt
09 -
1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
10 -
½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken)
11 -
1½ cups heavy cream
12 -
¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup shredded mozzarella
14 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
15 -
¾ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
16 -
2 oz cream cheese, softened
17 -
½ tsp Italian seasoning
18 -
½ tsp dried basil
19 -
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
20 -
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
# Directions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil, and set aside so it does not stick.
02 -
Pat the chicken dry, then season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press the grated Parmesan onto the chicken pieces to create a light crust.
03 -
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 4–6 minutes, flipping as needed, until the pieces are cooked through and golden.
04 -
Toss in 1 tablespoon of butter and half the garlic during the last minute of cooking. Stir until the garlic is fragrant, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
05 -
Drop the remaining tablespoon of butter into the same skillet. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
06 -
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring it to a simmer.
07 -
Add the cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. Slowly stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
08 -
Add the cooked spaghetti into the sauce. Use tongs to toss and coat the pasta in the cheesy Cajun sauce. Let it sit over low heat for a minute to absorb the flavor.
09 -
Top with fresh chopped parsley before serving.