There’s something magical about a bowl of pasta coated in a silky, cheesy sauce with just the right kick of Cajun spice. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce isn’t just dinner; it’s comfort in a bowl. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for those evenings when you’re craving something a little indulgent yet surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to earn you rave reviews.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
Key Benefits
This isn’t your average chicken pasta. It’s bold, creamy, and loaded with flavor from start to finish. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:
-
It’s quick and easy. From prep to plate in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
-
One skillet, less mess. You’ll love that most of the magic happens in a single pan, saving you from a pile of dishes later.
-
Layers of flavor. Cajun seasoning brings smoky, spicy notes that pair perfectly with the creamy mozzarella sauce.
-
Crowd-pleaser. Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds.
This recipe is designed to be forgiving too. Don’t have mozzarella? Parmesan alone works beautifully. Want to add veggies? Go for it.
Suitable For
This creamy Cajun chicken spaghetti is versatile enough to fit a variety of occasions and needs:
-
Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers.
-
Easy to adjust for different spice tolerances. Simply dial back the cayenne or add extra for a real Cajun kick.
-
Great for meal prep. The sauce reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for lunches the next day.
-
Works for beginner cooks and seasoned pros alike.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests, this pasta has you covered.
Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
Core Ingredients
Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and this one is no different. Here’s what you’ll need:
-
Unsalted butter – For sautéing the garlic and building a rich base for the sauce.
-
Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic adds a depth of flavor you won’t get from powders.
-
Heavy cream – This creates the luscious, velvety texture of the sauce.
-
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.
-
Cajun seasoning – Use your favorite store-bought mix or make your own for more control over spice and salt levels.
-
Olive oil – For searing the chicken and locking in those juices.
-
Mozzarella cheese – Provides that signature gooey, stretchy texture.
-
Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty note to balance the creaminess.
-
Spaghetti – Or swap with linguine, penne, or your favorite pasta shape.
Substitutions and Tips
This recipe loves a little flexibility. Here’s how you can adapt it:
-
Chicken swaps: Try shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for different proteins.
-
Low-carb option: Replace spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
-
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and vegan mozzarella for a plant-based version.
-
Cheese variations: A touch of cream cheese can make the sauce even richer.
Don’t be afraid to toss in extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a colorful, nutrient-packed meal.
Best Cajun Seasoning for This Recipe
Cajun seasoning is the star of the show, and not all blends are created equal. Store-bought options like Slap Ya Mama or Tony Chachere’s deliver consistent flavor, but homemade Cajun seasoning lets you fine-tune the heat and salt content.
To make your own, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This gives you full control and allows you to adjust the spice level to suit your family’s taste buds.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Must-Have Tools
-
Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook the chicken and make the sauce.
-
Pasta pot – For boiling the spaghetti to al dente perfection.
-
Tongs or a large spoon – For tossing the pasta with the sauce.
-
Sharp knife and cutting board – To prep the chicken and garlic.
Nice-to-Have Tools
-
Garlic press – Speeds up the mincing process.
-
Microplane – For finely grating Parmesan cheese.
-
Splatter guard – Helps keep your stovetop clean while searing the chicken.
Having the right tools on hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable, but don’t stress if you’re missing a few. This recipe is all about simplicity.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
This is where the magic happens. With a few simple steps, you’ll transform basic ingredients into a rich, flavorful pasta dish that tastes like it came from your favorite restaurant. Follow along and I’ll guide you through every stage so you end up with creamy, cheesy perfection every single time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt isn’t just for seasoning—it helps the pasta hold onto that luscious sauce later. Add your spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. This means the pasta is tender but still has a little bite. Drain it and set it aside, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid can come in handy if you want to loosen up the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Cajun Chicken
While your pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Pat your chicken pieces dry with a paper towel and toss them in Cajun seasoning until they’re well coated.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust, then stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the pieces are cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely to keep warm.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to avoid steaming it.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells irresistible and the garlic is just starting to turn golden.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring it to a gentle simmer—not a full boil—to keep the cream from curdling. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until they’re completely melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.
Season with a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want an extra kick. Taste as you go so you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Add your drained pasta and toss everything together until the spaghetti is fully coated in that dreamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
This is the moment where all the flavors come together, and it’s worth taking an extra minute to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest. Pair with a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread to round out the meal.
Tips for Success
-
Keep the heat low for the sauce. High heat can cause the cream to separate or the cheese to clump. A gentle simmer is all you need.
-
Use freshly grated cheeses. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s smoothness.
-
Taste and adjust. Cajun seasoning blends vary in saltiness and heat. Taste your sauce before adding extra seasoning.
-
Cook pasta just shy of done. It will finish cooking in the sauce, absorbing more flavor.
How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
At Room Temperature
This dish should not sit out for more than two hours. Cool leftovers quickly to avoid bacterial growth.
In the Refrigerator
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the silky texture.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze this pasta for up to one month, but keep in mind the cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slowly, stirring well to help the sauce come back together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and chicken a day in advance and store them separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently, toss with freshly cooked pasta, and enjoy.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning. For a milder version, skip the cayenne pepper and use a mild Cajun blend. For more spice, add extra cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
What pasta works best with this sauce?
Spaghetti is classic, but linguine, fettuccine, or even penne work beautifully. Choose a shape that holds onto the creamy sauce.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use your favorite dairy-free cheeses. The result will still be rich and satisfying.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved this Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti, you might enjoy these other comforting pasta dishes:
-
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipes: Creamy garlic and Parmesan flavors that pair beautifully with chicken.
-
Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe: A hearty, rich dish with Italian flavors.
-
Chicken Mushroom Pasta: Tender chicken and earthy mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
-
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A quick and satisfying garlic butter pasta dish.
-
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: For seafood lovers craving creamy garlic flavors.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is everything you want in a comfort food—rich, cheesy, and just the right amount of spice. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a new favorite in your household.
Print
Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce combines tender chicken, bold Cajun spices, and a rich, cheesy sauce over pasta.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Salt for pasta water
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook spaghetti to al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
- Season sauce with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
- Return chicken to skillet and toss with cooked spaghetti until well coated.
- Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use penne or fettuccine instead of spaghetti for variety.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- For a milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti, garlic mozzarella pasta, Cajun chicken recipe