Introduction

This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, garlicky mozzarella sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it brings bold Cajun flavors and creamy textures together in one satisfying meal.

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

Step 1: Cook spaghetti according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, season chicken with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 6: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Add cream cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 9: Add cooked chicken back into the sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
Step 10: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Step 11: Sprinkle remaining 1 cup mozzarella on top, cover, and let sit for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
Step 12: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add more red pepper flakes.
Use smoked gouda or provolone instead of mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the dish lighter.
Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness when garnishing.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened. Avoid microwave reheating if possible to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.

How to Serve

A white pan filled with three groups of pale yellow fettuccine pasta noodles arranged on the right side, topped lightly with black pepper and green parsley bits, next to a sliced grilled chicken breast on the left side with a dark brown crust and juicy white inside, all sitting in a thick light orange creamy sauce that covers the pan bottom. On the top right outside the pan is a small white bowl of grated cheese and at the bottom left corner there are two slices of light brown crusty bread on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as a substitute, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that balances the spices well.