Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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5 Irresistible Reasons to Love Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Looking for a powerfully comforting weeknight dinner that’s quick, bold, and indulgently creamy? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce delivers the perfect punch of smoky spice and cheesy satisfaction in every bite. Imagine juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a dreamy, garlicky mozzarella sauce bubbling over the top—ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food or wanting to wow your family on a busy night, this irresistible recipe is about to become your new obsession.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

• Incredibly rich, creamy garlic mozzarella sauce blends beautifully with smoky Cajun spices.
• Quick and easy—on the table in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Satisfying comfort food with restaurant-quality flavors made easily at home.
• Customizable with your favorite proteins or veggies.
• Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests.

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Let’s break down exactly what you need for the ultimate flavor-packed spaghetti experience. These ingredients combine to create the creamy, spicy, cheesy goodness that makes this dish unforgettable:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The star protein, perfectly juicy when seasoned and seared.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness, helps brown the chicken, and carries flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Adds bold, zesty heat for authentic Southern flair.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances smokiness and depth.
• 1 pound spaghetti: Classic, twirlable pasta base.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Makes the sauce luxuriously rich.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for flavor-packed, aromatic sauce.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for that ultra-creamy texture.
• 3 cups whole milk: Provides a lush, smooth sauce base.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory undertones and balances the richness.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Delivers decadence and exceptional creaminess.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melty, stretchy, and oh-so-cheesy.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharpens and deepens the savory flavors.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance everything.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, for extra Cajun heat if you dare!

These simple, readily available ingredients come together for maximum flavor and endless comfort.

Necessary Tools

Before you dive into making Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce, ensure your kitchen is stocked with the right tools for seamless prep and fuss-free cooking:

• Large pot: To boil your spaghetti until perfectly al dente.
• Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet: Essential for browning the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board: For neatly slicing the chicken and prepping other ingredients.
• Colander: To drain your cooked spaghetti quickly without sticking.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Gentle enough for stirring the sauce and tossing the pasta.
• Whisk: Key for creating a smooth, lump-free mozzarella sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is important for consistent flavor and texture.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for coating your chicken with Cajun seasoning and olive oil.
• Oven-safe dish or roasting pan: Needed if you choose to broil the cheesy topping for a bubbly finish.

Having these essentials at arm’s reach makes the whole process smoother—from prep through to that final, melty cheese drop!

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

One of the beautiful things about Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is its adaptability. Here are some creative additions and smart swaps to personalize your pasta:

Additions:

• Sautéed bell peppers and onions: Add color, sweetness, and crunch—just cook them with the chicken or after.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Offer tangy, chewy bursts of flavor that complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.
• Fresh spinach or kale: Stir in at the end for a hit of freshness and nutrition.
• Crumbled bacon: For extra smoky richness, sprinkle cooked bacon on top before broiling.

Protein Substitutions:

• Shrimp: Use peeled, deveined shrimp instead of chicken. Sauté quickly (2-3 minutes) with the Cajun rub for a seafood twist.
• Andouille sausage: Classic Cajun! Slice and brown in place of chicken, or use alongside for more flavor.
• Rotisserie chicken: For ultra-speedy dinners, substitute with pre-cooked chicken—just toss in with the sauce to heat through.

Cheese Options:

• Gouda or fontina: Try swapping part of the mozzarella for these creamy cheeses for a richer sauce.
• Monterey jack: Delivers a gentle kick and extra meltiness.

Dietary Modifications:

• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti and all-purpose gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and dairy-free mozzarella/cream cheese to achieve a creamy finish.
• Lighter: Substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and milk for fewer calories but a bit less richness.

Spice Adjustments:

• For less heat: Reduce the Cajun seasoning or skip the optional red pepper flakes.
• For more heat: Add extra Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce.

The possibilities are endless—tailor your Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce to your taste and dietary preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

This stunning dish comes together quickly but delivers big on flavor and comfort. Here’s how to bring every steamy, cheesy forkful to life:

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Ensure every piece is evenly coated—this step is key for deep, smoky flavor and succulence.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (usually 9-11 minutes) until just al dente. Drain well, reserving a bit of pasta water if you want to thin the sauce later, and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken, stirring occasionally for 6-8 minutes until each piece is browned and cooked through. Remove to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Build the Garlic Roux

In that same skillet (no need to wipe out the flavor-packed bits!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, filling your kitchen with an incredible aroma. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute, forming a smooth roux.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Gradually add the whole milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken slightly (3-4 minutes).

Step 6: Melt in Cheeses

Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Gradually add 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella and all the Parmesan. Stir until everything is unified into a silky, luscious sauce. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 7: Combine and Coat

Return the cooked chicken and spaghetti to the skillet. Use tongs or a spatula to toss, ensuring every strand is encased in that decadent, cheesy sauce.

Step 8: Finish Under the Broiler

Transfer everything to an oven-safe serving dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella on top. Broil for 2-3 minutes until golden, bubbly, and irresistible.

Step 9: Serve and Savor

Serve immediately—don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like a pop of color and herbal brightness.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Presentation transforms this pasta from weeknight dinner to dinner-party centerpiece. Pile the spaghetti high onto generous plates, ensuring every portion catches both crispy-edged chicken and an extra pool of creamy mozzarella sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or scallions for color and freshness.

Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping and a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For drinks, a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the spicy-creamy dynamic beautifully. This dish is amazing straight from the broiler—hot, gooey, and deeply satisfying.

Pro Tips & Tricks

• Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother, lump-free sauce.
• Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces for even cooking and maximum surface flavor.
• Don’t overcook the spaghetti—al dente texture stands up best in the rich sauce.
• For an extra golden top, place the broiled dish on the highest oven rack and watch closely.
• A touch of pasta water can thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Love spice? Dial up the Cajun or add cayenne and red pepper flakes.
• Add veggies to amp up nutrition—try finely chopped spinach, broccoli, or roasted red peppers.
• Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk or broth—you’ll revive the creamy texture in minutes.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, splash in a bit of milk or chicken broth and gently warm in a skillet or microwave—this helps preserve the silky texture of the cheese sauce. We do not recommend freezing, as the creamy sauce can separate and become grainy upon thawing. For best results, enjoy your Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce fresh, or within a couple of days for next-level leftovers.

General Information

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 750

This restaurant-worthy recipe offers the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesiness. It’s a crowd-pleasing dinner that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps—magnificent flavor is just 30 minutes away. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or spicing up date night, this dish is a guaranteed success.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just shred or cube the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce when combining with pasta. Toss to heat through—this shortcut makes the dish even faster.

Is this recipe spicy?

Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce brings moderate heat from the Cajun seasoning but is balanced by the creamy sauce and mozzarella. To make it milder, simply use less Cajun seasoning.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free spaghetti and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. The sauce thickens beautifully even with the substitution.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Full-fat ricotta or mascarpone provide a similar creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different. Greek yogurt can work in a pinch for a tangier, lighter sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Definitely! This recipe welcomes additions—try spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.

What sides work well with Cajun Chicken Spaghetti?

Pair with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For drinks, opt for white wine, sweet iced tea, or sparkling water with lemon.

Conclusion

One bite of Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce and you’ll see why this dish is a new comfort food champion! Its bold spice, velvety sauce, and cheesy finish are impossible to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making weeknights special, this recipe is your ticket to spectacular Southern flavor at home.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce contains approximately 750 calories. Expect around 37g protein, 40g fat, and 65g carbohydrates per portion. It’s indulgent but loaded with protein—perfect for an energizing, satisfying meal. Enjoy responsibly and savor every creamy, spicy, cheesy bite!

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