Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Weeknight Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti is an easy weeknight meal bursting with bold Cajun flavor. Tender chicken, pasta, and a rich sauce come together fast.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Cajun
# Ingredients:
→ Cajun Chicken Sizzle
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Spaghetti Foundation
04 -
12 oz spaghetti
05 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
06 -
1 green bell pepper, diced
07 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Creamy Cajun Embrace
09 -
1 cup heavy cream
10 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
11 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 -
2 oz cream cheese, softened
13 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
14 -
1 tsp garlic powder
15 -
1 tsp onion powder
16 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
17 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Fresh Finish
18 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Season 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Cook 12 oz spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. This sets up your Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Weeknight Meal for success.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté 1/2 yellow onion, diced, and 1 green bell pepper, diced, for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
04 -
Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. This rich base is key for your Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Weeknight Meal.
05 -
Reduce heat to low. Whisk in 2 oz cream cheese, softened, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the cooked 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the skillet. Add the cooked 12 oz spaghetti.
06 -
Toss everything together until the chicken and spaghetti are well coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Serve your delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Weeknight Meal immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce along with the other spices.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
Feel free to substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken, adjusting cooking times as needed.
04 -
A simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment to this hearty pasta dish.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 907 kcal
Total Fat: 43 g
Total Carbohydrate: 73 g
Protein: 55 g