Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Cream Sauce
A decadent, restaurant-worthy pasta with tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy, spicy cheese sauce that’s packed with flavor!
🍝 Ingredients *(Serves 4-6)*
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust for heat)
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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Salt & pepper to taste
For the Pasta & Sauce:
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12 oz spaghetti (or linguine)
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3 tbsp butter
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
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1/4 cup cream cheese (for extra richness)
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1 tsp Cajun seasoning
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For Garnish:
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Extra Parmesan
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Lemon wedges
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Green onions, sliced
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
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Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden (5-6 mins).
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Add minced garlic in the last 30 seconds, then remove chicken and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
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Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
3. Make the Sauce
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In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
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Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 3-4 mins.
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Reduce heat to low, then stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Combine Everything
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Toss cooked spaghetti in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
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Fold in cooked chicken and fresh parsley.
5. Serve & Garnish
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Top with extra Parmesan, green onions, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
🔥 Spice Level Adjustments
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Mild: Use 1 tsp Cajun seasoning total.
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Extra spicy: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper.
💡 Pro Tips
✅ Don’t overcook the pasta—it will soften more in the sauce.
✅ Use freshly grated cheese (pre-shredded won’t melt as smoothly).
✅ Make it ahead: The sauce reheats well with a splash of cream.
Why You’ll Love It
✔ Creamy, cheesy, and spicy—the ultimate comfort food upgrade!
✔ Balanced flavors: Garlic + Parmesan cut through the heat.
✔ Impressive but easy—perfect for date night or entertaining.
Pair with: Garlic bread and a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. 🍷
Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 3 days (reheat gently with a splash of broth).
Want to add shrimp or crispy bacon? Go for it! 😋