Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Cream Sauce

 

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Cream Sauce is the ultimate comfort food recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy pasta, bold Cajun spices, and three different cheeses for a rich, irresistible dinner. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of spaghetti, the chicken adds protein and flavor, and the blend of mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and cream cheese creates the silkiest, cheesiest bite. If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality pasta dish you can make at home, this recipe will impress your family and guests every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

 

• Restaurant quality at home: Creamy, cheesy, and spicy all in one.
• Bold Cajun flavors: The Cajun seasoning brings just the right kick of heat.
• Perfect comfort food: Hearty enough for a cozy dinner, yet elegant enough for entertaining.
• Customizable: You can switch up the protein, pasta shape, or even the cheeses.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or more, to taste)
• Pinch of onion powder
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken strips and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Stir in the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking, just until fragrant.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Boil the Spaghetti

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente—about 1–2 minutes less than package directions.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it come to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, dried basil, Cajun seasoning, and onion powder. Stir well.
5. Gradually add mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
6. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

4. Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Add the drained spaghetti and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy Cajun cream sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed—add more Cajun spice for heat, or extra cheese for richness.

5. Serve & Garnish

 

• Transfer the pasta to plates or a serving dish.
• Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
• Optionally, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

 

• Cook pasta slightly underdone: It will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Use block cheese if possible: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Adjust the spice: If you don’t like it too spicy, cut down the Cajun seasoning and cayenne.
• Add vegetables: Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the chicken for extra flavor.
• Make it smoky: Add a touch of smoked Gouda cheese for a deeper, restaurant-style flavor.

Variations

 

• Shrimp Cajun Pasta: Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Penne or Fettuccine: Any pasta shape works with this sauce.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cream cheese.
• Extra cheesy: Stir in a handful of Gouda or Monterey Jack for more gooey goodness.

Storage & Reheating

 

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing is not recommended since the creamy sauce may separate.

Serving Suggestions

 

• Serve with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the extra sauce.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for balance.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine, lemonade, or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.

Final Thoughts

 

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Cream Sauce is more than just another pasta recipe—it’s a full comfort food experience. The creamy texture, the bold Cajun spices, and the richness of three different cheeses make it unforgettable. Whether you cook this for a cozy weeknight dinner, a date night, or to impress guests, this pasta dish always delivers.