Description
Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a rich, flavorful pasta dish combining tender chicken pieces coated in zesty Cajun seasoning, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luxurious, garlicky mozzarella cream sauce. Finished with a broiled cheese topping, this comforting recipe balances creaminess and spice, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. Satisfyingly hearty and sure to become a family favorite with its irresistible blend of textures and bold taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Toss until coated.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions, about 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add seasoned chicken and cook 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour; stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, then bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Lower heat and add cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups mozzarella and all Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired.
- Add cooked spaghetti and chicken to skillet. Toss to coat noodles with sauce.
- Transfer to a large serving dish or oven-safe pan. Top with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella.
- Broil 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk or substitute with half-and-half. You can swap chicken for shrimp or use gluten-free pasta and flour for dietary needs. To make ahead, assemble fully and refrigerate; broil just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days—reheat with a splash of milk to loosen sauce. If sauce is too thick, add more milk or broth. For added veggies, stir in sautéed bell peppers or spinach. If sauce splits, whisk vigorously until smooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Broiling
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 130mg