Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, zesty goodness of Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, not just for its irresistible flavors, but for its ability to bring smiles around the dinner table. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or entertaining friends, this dish showcases tender chicken strips coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of Cajun spice.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe is a must-try because it perfectly balances convenience and flavor. Imagine a hearty meal that takes less than an hour to prepare and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters – that’s what this cheesy garlic chicken spaghetti delivers. The creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce is not only rich and indulgent but also brings a delightful kick that elevates the entire dish.
“This pasta is a crowd-pleaser! The blend of spices and cheese makes it so addictively good. My family keeps asking for it again and again!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Preparing Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce is straightforward and rewarding. Start by boiling the spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente, then sear the chicken to golden perfection while infusing it with rich garlic flavors. The sauce, which comes together in the same skillet, is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Finally, combine everything for a dish that’s comforting and full of taste.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients for your culinary adventure:
- 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1–1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (to loosen sauce, if needed)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan (for garnish)
- Sprinkle of Cajun seasoning (for garnish)
Feel free to experiment with ingredients! For a lighter version, you can substitute with turkey or tofu. You might also swap out heavy cream for a lighter alternative if desired.
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Boil the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
-
Sear the Chicken: Pat the chicken strips dry and season them with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through. In the last minute, add minced garlic and toss until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the cream cheese until the sauce is smooth. Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and creamy. Season with red pepper flakes, additional salt, and extra Cajun seasoning. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
-
Combine: Toss the spaghetti in the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce and gently fold in the garlic chicken strips, making sure everything is well-coated.
-
Plate and Garnish: Serve the hot spaghetti with the chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and a light dusting of Cajun seasoning to finish.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti is all about presentation and pairing. Serve it in a large, shallow bowl, topped with fresh parsley and more Parmesan for an inviting look. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. A glass of chilled white wine can elevate the meal further, making it an excellent choice for date night or family gatherings.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your creamy spaghetti correctly can keep your dish delightful for days. Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or rewarm on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to bring back that creamy texture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, marinate the chicken with Cajun seasoning the night before; this will enhance the flavor even more.
- Adjust Spice: Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your family’s tolerance for spice.
- Extra Creamy: For a richer sauce, try adding a bit more cream cheese or mozzarella.
Creative Twists
Want to mix things up? Here are some variations:
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
- For a smoky flavor, try adding andouille sausage along with the chicken.
- A splash of lemon juice can adds a bright touch to the dish — just before serving, squeeze some fresh lemon over the top.
FAQs
What’s the prep time for this dish?
The total prep and cooking time should take about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free spaghetti and double-check your Cajun seasoning for gluten-free compliance.
How can I store leftovers safely?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the pasta before sealing to avoid condensation and sogginess.
With its delightful blend of flavors and creamy textures, Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine! Enjoy the cooking process and happy eating!
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- Pat the chicken strips dry and season them with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through.
- In the last minute, add minced garlic and toss until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the cream cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
- Season with red pepper flakes, additional salt, and extra Cajun seasoning. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Toss the spaghetti in the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce and gently fold in the garlic chicken strips, making sure everything is well-coated.
- Serve the hot spaghetti with the chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and a light dusting of Cajun seasoning to finish.
