This Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti is a fun twist on a classic dish! With delicious chicken, zesty spices, and creamy sauce, it packs a punch of flavor that you’ll love.
Making this dish is always a party in my kitchen! Just toss everything together, and you’ll be amazed at how quick it comes together. Perfect for spicy food lovers! 🌶️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend spaghetti or fettuccine for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole grain or gluten-free pasta can work nicely too.
Cajun Seasoning: You can make your own if you have the spices on hand! Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and a bit of cayenne. If you want less heat, cut back on the cayenne or swap it for smoked paprika.
Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect, thighs can add more flavor and tenderness. If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or almond milk with a bit of added flour for thickening. Greek yogurt can also work for a tangy twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice touch, but if you’re in a pinch, pre-grated works too. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor.
How Can I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to making this dish shine! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Start with room-temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper before cooking. This helps build flavor.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear, which adds texture and flavor. Don’t rush it!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing—this keeps the juices inside.
Follow these tips, and you’ll end up with incredibly flavorful chicken that makes your pasta dish even better!
Bold And Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti will take approximately 30-35 minutes, including prep time and cooking time. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Generously season both sides with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, put the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and let it rest. After a few minutes, slice it into strips.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s softened, which takes about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
5. Add Spices and Liquids:
Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping the bottom to get all those tasty browned bits. Let this simmer for about 2 minutes.
6. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and carefully add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them cook until they soften.
7. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
8. Serve:
Plate the pasta and top it with the sliced Cajun chicken. Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor, along with some extra Parmesan if you like!
9. Enjoy:
Serve this delicious dish hot and enjoy the bold, creamy, and spicy flavors of Cajun chicken spaghetti! Your taste buds will thank you!
This dish combines a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce with perfectly cooked chicken and pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or fettuccine works best, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers! Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning with common spices. Combine equal parts paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme. Add cayenne pepper for heat to taste. Feel free to adjust based on your flavor preferences!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth as well. Enjoy the same creamy sauce with your favorite veggies!
