Are you ready to indulge in a dish that’s explosive in flavor yet quick to prepare? Look no further than this Cajun Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. This recipe combines the vibrant zest of Cajun spices, succulent chicken, and a luscious creamy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Best of all, it’s all ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of pasta, chicken, or looking to explore exciting flavors, this dish is sure to tick all the right boxes.
The combination of Cajun seasoning with the tender chicken breasts seared to perfection creates a dish that is not just comforting but also packed with an array of flavors. When paired with spaghetti enveloped in a rich garlic and mozzarella sauce, it transforms into a complete meal that’s both filling and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this Cajun Chicken Spaghetti will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Let’s dive deeper into the magic of this dish and make it a part of your culinary repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick to the tender chicken, complemented by the creamy sauce.
- Comfort Food: Combining pasta with a rich sauce ensures that every bite is comforting and satisfying.
- Versatile: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish pleases a wide range of tastes.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before starting your culinary adventure, let’s prep your kitchen to ensure a smooth cooking experience. First and foremost, gather your ingredients; having everything within reach will help in maintaining your flow during the cooking process. A large pot for boiling the spaghetti, a heavy skillet for searing the chicken, and a wooden spoon for stirring will be your trusty tools in this recipe.
Make sure to have a colander handy for draining the spaghetti and a sharp knife for slicing the chicken once cooked. It’s also helpful to keep a measuring cup on hand since you’ll need to reserve some pasta water later. The organized workspace not only speeds up the cooking process but also enhances your overall experience in the kitchen, allowing you to whip up this delicious dish with ease.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (for searing chicken)
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This is crucial as it helps the Cajun seasoning adhere better while ensuring a nice sear. Generously coat both sides of the chicken with Cajun seasoning. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors soak in and intensify.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil alongside a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for approximately 5–6 minutes on each side or until they are thoroughly cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is essential as it keeps the juices locked in, yielding juicy and tender chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
While the chicken is searing, it’s the perfect time to focus on your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook the noodles until they are just a bit less than al dente—this usually takes around 7–9 minutes. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti in a colander. This starchy water is crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet where you seared the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and then the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes aromatic, which should take about 30 seconds—be careful not to let it burn. Next, pour the heavy cream into the skillet, gently scraping up the flavorful bits left from the chicken. Allow the cream to come to a gentle bubble before incorporating the mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely, forming a smooth and creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
With the mozzarella sauce ready, it’s time to add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the spaghetti in the sauce, ensuring it’s well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you achieve desired consistency. Finally, season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste. Slice the rested chicken and arrange it over the pasta. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a beautiful finishing touch, bringing color and freshness to your dish.
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option while retaining the Cajun flair.
- Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the sauce to enhance the nutritional value and add more texture.
- Spices: Try altering the Cajun seasoning with Italian herbs for a different flavor profile or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- If you prefer lighter pasta, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the creamy pasta.
- A glass of dry white wine pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for a few hours or overnight if time allows.
- To ensure the sauce remains creamy, avoid boiling it after adding the cheese; simply let it warm through.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 700 calories per serving
- Protein: 35 grams
- Sodium: 650 milligrams
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat and cook the pasta before serving.
What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning?
You could try chili powder, paprika, or a mix of Italian herbs for a milder flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that hits all the right notes—flavor, richness, and timing—you’ve found it with this Cajun Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. Quick to prepare and full of comforting, robust flavors, this recipe is bound to become a weeknight favorite. Don’t forget to try out the different variations and adaptations, turning this standout dish into your very own signature creation. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Share your comments and experiences below, and happy cooking!
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Cajun Chicken Spaghetti in Creamy Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Experience the flavor explosion of Cajun spices in this creamy chicken spaghetti dish!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (for searing chicken)
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Generously coat both sides of the chicken with Cajun seasoning and let rest for about 10 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, cook the chicken breasts for approximately 5–6 minutes on each side until cooked through and let rest.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just less than al dente (about 7–9 minutes), reserving ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet, lower heat and sauté minced garlic in remaining butter. Pour in the heavy cream, scraping the skillet, and let it bubble before adding the mozzarella, stirring until melted.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, toss in the sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water as needed, and season with salt and pepper. Serve with sliced chicken and parsley on top.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 700 kcal
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Protein: 35 g