Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this delectable Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti recipe. Picture tender, parmesan-crusted chicken nestled on a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, all draped in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. It’s a dish that elevates any weeknight dinner to a special occasion, making it a go-to favorite for impressing guests or cozy family meals after a long day. The blend of flavors and textures in this dish is a true crowd-pleaser, sure to leave everyone at the table craving more.

The magic begins with crusting the chicken in savory Parmesan, creating that irresistible golden crispness that sets this dish apart. As the fragrant aroma fills the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. The velvety cheese sauce, with its spicy Cajun twist, perfectly complements the richness of the chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight routine or create a memorable gathering, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a recipe that promises to delight and satisfy.

Quick Benefits

• Crisp and Flavorful Chicken: The parmesan crust adds a crispy texture and nutty finish to the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce: The velvety cheese sauce with a kick of Cajun seasoning adds a bold and decadent flavor profile to the dish.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can customize the heat level by adjusting Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes, and swap ingredients like mozzarella for Monterey Jack or provolone.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the dish multiple times or have leftovers for quick and convenient meals.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Recipe Recipe

• Bold and Decadent Flavor: The spicy Cajun cream sauce paired with tender parmesan-crusted chicken creates a dish that is rich and satisfying, perfect for comforting cravings.
• Impressive Yet Easy: Whether you are looking to impress guests or treat your family, this recipe is a go-to for special weeknight dinners without a lot of hassle.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of velvety cheese sauce and golden cheesy edges on the chicken creates a dish that is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can customize the recipe by using different types of cheese, adding extra veggies, or adjusting the spice levels to suit your preference.
• Make-ahead and Leftovers: The dish stores well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy it for up to three days. Perfect for meal prep or enjoying delicious leftovers.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy the flavors of Southern Cajun cuisine and classic Italian cream sauce in one dish, bringing restaurant-quality taste to your own kitchen.
• Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe is a hit with families and guests alike, bringing together warming flavors with a touch of personality that keeps everyone happy and satisfied.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Recipe

Poultry

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

Pasta

• 340 g spaghetti

Oils and Fats

• 15 ml olive oil
• 56 g salted butter, divided

Aromatics

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 0.5 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 0.125 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

Dairy

• 110 g shredded mozzarella
• 57 g cream cheese, softened
• 180 ml low-sodium chicken broth
• 360 ml heavy cream
• 110 g shredded sharp cheddar
• 60 g grated Parmesan cheese (for crusting chicken)
• 75 g grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)

Herbs

• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Pro Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Recipe

To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti, ensure the spaghetti strands stay separate by tossing them in olive oil after draining. This simple step prevents clumping and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.

When crusting the chicken with Parmesan, aim for golden, crispy edges to add a delightful texture and nutty finish to each bite. This flavorful coating not only keeps the chicken moist but also enhances the overall dish.

For a richer sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce or incorporate a bit more cream cheese to enhance its body and creaminess. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preferences, dialing it down for a milder flavor or adding extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. Don’t forget to finish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness, or experiment with basil or chives for added depth of flavor.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain and toss with olive oil.

Step 2: Season and Crust the Chicken

Dry the chicken strips and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Press grated Parmesan onto the chicken to create a light crust.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–6 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and cooked through. In the last minute, add the remaining butter and half of the garlic. Transfer chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Start the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the rest of the butter and sauté the remaining garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Cream Sauce

Add heavy cream and chicken broth to the pot, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheeses and Seasonings

Whisk cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in mozzarella, cheddar, and 75 g grated Parmesan. Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat evenly and let it rest over low heat for 1 minute to absorb flavors.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Divide the sauced spaghetti among plates. Place the parmesan-crusted chicken strips on top and garnish with chopped parsley.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti, you can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain the creamy texture of the pasta when reheating, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of extra cream or chicken broth. Storing the chicken and pasta together allows the flavors to meld even more in the refrigerator, enhancing the dish when enjoyed later.

For a quicker meal, consider using rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken in place of cooking the chicken breasts from scratch. If you run out of mozzarella, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or provolone. Adding some extra veggies such as spinach or diced bell peppers can provide a tasty twist to the dish. Remember to pair this flavorful pasta with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of grated cheese for a finishing touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make a quicker version of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti, consider using rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts from scratch. This will save you time and still provide a delicious protein element to the dish.

If you don’t have mozzarella on hand, Monterey Jack or provolone can be used as substitutes for a slightly different cheesy flavor profile. Additionally, feel free to incorporate extra veggies like spinach or diced bell peppers for added texture and nutrients. These additions can bring freshness and color to the dish.

For a personalized touch, adjust the level of spiciness by reducing the Cajun seasoning for a milder flavor or increasing the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or chives if you prefer their flavors over parsley. Lastly, feel free to swap out the spaghetti with penne, fettuccine, or linguine based on your preference or what you have available in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti, try plating the dish in individual baked pasta shells. Fill large pasta shells with the creamy chicken and spaghetti mixture, then top with extra mozzarella and cheddar cheese before baking until bubbly and golden brown. Serve these cheesy stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread for a delicious and impressive meal.

To elevate the presentation of this dish, consider serving the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in small cast-iron skillets or mini cocottes. Fill each skillet with a generous portion of the creamy Cajun chicken and spaghetti, then sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan and a dash of smoked paprika before serving. This individualized presentation adds a rustic charm to the meal and makes for a cozy dining experience.

FAQs for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti: Easy Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely. Penne, fettuccine, or linguine all work well with the creamy sauce and chicken strips.

How can I adjust the spice level in this dish?

Yes, reduce Cajun seasoning for less heat, or add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

How should I store leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti?

This dish stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the pasta creamy, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of extra cream or chicken broth. Store chicken and pasta together for extra flavor mingling in the fridge.

What other herbs can I use besides parsley for garnish?

Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness, but basil or chives also complement the creamy flavors.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti brings as much joy and deliciousness to your table as it does to mine. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish truly makes it a standout, perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses or extra veggies to make it your own signature dish.

Remember, cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment. So, whether you’re preparing this for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends, the warmth and comfort of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti will surely be a hit. Embrace the process, savor every bite, and create lasting memories around good food. Bon appétit!