How do you prevent spaghetti from sticking after boiling?

After draining, lightly toss the spaghetti with olive oil. This keeps the strands separate and prevents clumping.

What does parmesan crust do for the chicken?

The parmesan forms a crisp, flavorful coating, helping the chicken stay moist and adding a nutty finish.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer to reduce or add a touch more cream cheese for additional richness and body.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, reduce Cajun seasoning for less heat, or add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Which herbs pair best as garnish?

Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness, but basil or chives also complement the creamy flavors.

Is it possible to use other pasta shapes?

Absolutely. Penne, fettuccine, or linguine all work well with the creamy sauce and chicken strips.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Nothing cures a comfort food craving like a plate of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti tossed in a spicy Cajun cream sauce. This dish makes any weeknight feel special and has become one of my go-to recipes for impressing friends or just treating my family after a long day. The combination of tender parmesan-crusted chicken and velvety cheese sauce has made this a repeat favorite at our table.

The first time I made this recipe I wanted something bold and decadent. My family loves a little kick and the cheesy Cajun cream hits all those comfort notes. We rarely have leftovers but when we do everyone races for them.

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: sliced thin for even quick cooking and maximum flavor
Spaghetti: classic shape that soaks up all the creamy sauce well
Olive oil: helps sear the chicken and keeps pasta from sticking
Salted butter: divided for both flavor depth and a silky sauce
Garlic: fresh and finely minced for savoriness and aroma
Cajun seasoning: adds that signature heat and spice blend look for blends with paprika and garlic
Smoked paprika: imparts a deep smoky undertone opt for Spanish if you can find it
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: seasoning the chicken and sauce for the perfect balance
Grated Parmesan: pressed onto chicken forms a golden crust use aged Parmesan for best flavor
Heavy cream: builds the luxurious base for the sauce richer than milk for extra body
Low sodium chicken broth: stretches the sauce and prevents it from being too heavy
Shredded mozzarella: melts beautifully and offers gooey texture
Shredded sharp cheddar: adds tang and depth to the cheese sauce
More grated Parmesan: for the sauce boosts the overall umami factor
Cream cheese: makes the sauce extra velvety make sure it is softened
Italian seasoning, dried basil and crushed red pepper flakes: season the sauce and give a hint of herbal brightness
Fresh chopped parsley: finishes the dish with color and freshness

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:: Boil a large pot of water and add the spaghetti. Cook just until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil so the noodles do not stick together. Set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:: Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry. Season all over with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Press grated Parmesan onto each side of the chicken pieces to form a light crust.
Sear the Chicken:: Heat olive oil and two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the crusted chicken strips. Sear for four to six minutes, turning as needed so every side gets golden and the chicken cooks through.
Add Garlic Flavor:: In the final minute of cooking the chicken, add one more tablespoon of butter and half the minced garlic. Stir and let the garlic meld with the butter and chicken. Remove all chicken from the pan and keep it warm.
Start the Creamy Sauce:: Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add the remaining garlic. Sauté for about thirty seconds until fragrant.
Develop the Cream Base:: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring just to a gentle simmer.
Melt the Cheeses:: Whisk in the softened cream cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy. Add shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan. Slowly stir until melted and fully combined.
Season and Thicken:: Add Italian seasoning, dried basil and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer two to three minutes so it thickens. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:: Transfer cooked spaghetti into the skillet with sauce. Use tongs to toss until every strand is coated. Let the pasta soak up flavors on low heat for about one minute.
Plate and Serve:: Divide the cheesy spaghetti among plates. Top each with golden crusted chicken strips. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

A plate of spaghetti with chicken and garlic Parmesan sauce. | myhomemaderecipe.com

I always look forward to crusting the chicken with Parmesan. Getting the golden cheesy edges makes every bite pop. My kids love to sneak pieces of the chicken right out of the pan because it smells so good and I cannot blame them. One family dinner with lots of laughter always starts with this recipe.

Storage Tips

This dish stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the pasta creamy reheat gently on the stove with a splash of extra cream or chicken broth. Store chicken and pasta together for extra flavor mingling in the fridge.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to speed things up. If you are out of mozzarella try Monterey Jack or provolone. For extra veggies toss in spinach or diced bell peppers right before combining everything with the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

A crisp green salad makes the perfect fresh companion to cut all the richness. Serve with garlic bread for an extra treat. For a fancy touch garnish with more fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated cheese.

Cajun Italian Inspiration

This recipe is a marriage of Southern Cajun goodness with classic Italian cream sauce. My family has roots in both Louisiana and Italy and meals like this make everyone at the table happy. It is a go-to when you crave those warming flavors with a little personality.

Make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti when you want restaurant quality flavor at home. It is sure to become a family favorite and a regular in your recipe rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you prevent spaghetti from sticking after boiling?: After draining, lightly toss the spaghetti with olive oil. This keeps the strands separate and prevents clumping.
→ What does parmesan crust do for the chicken?: The parmesan forms a crisp, flavorful coating, helping the chicken stay moist and adding a nutty finish.
→ How can I make the sauce thicker?: Let the sauce simmer to reduce or add a touch more cream cheese for additional richness and body.
→ Can I adjust the spice level?: Yes, reduce Cajun seasoning for less heat, or add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
→ Which herbs pair best as garnish?: Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness, but basil or chives also complement the creamy flavors.
→ Is it possible to use other pasta shapes?: Absolutely. Penne, fettuccine, or linguine all work well with the creamy sauce and chicken strips.