Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

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Introduction

This dish combines the bold, smoky heat of Cajun spices with the creamy indulgence of Parmesan cheese and garlic. Tender, juicy chicken is pan-seared to perfection and tossed with al dente spaghetti in a luscious cream sauce that’s spiked with Cajun seasoning and fresh herbs. It’s comfort food with a kick — rich, spicy, and absolutely irresistible.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (sliced horizontally into cutlets)
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Spaghetti & Sauce:

• 300 g (10 oz) spaghetti
• 1 tbsp butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin
• 1 cup heavy cream (or double cream)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
4. Remove and let rest on a plate; slice into strips once cooled slightly.

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Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
2. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet (don’t clean it—use those chicken drippings for flavor), melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and onion; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the red bell pepper and cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, then whisk in Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
2. Add sliced chicken on top and mix gently until evenly combined.
3. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the creamy Cajun spaghetti, top with extra Parmesan, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil.
2. Serve hot — with garlic bread or a crisp side salad for the perfect meal.

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Tips & Variations

• Protein Swap: Try shrimp or andouille sausage instead of chicken for a Cajun twist.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for the cream, and use grilled chicken instead of pan-seared.

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