Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! My Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a dish that always brings smiles to the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy—a perfect meal to whip up on busy weeknights or during cozy family gatherings. The combination of Cajun-seasoned chicken and silky garlic mozzarella sauce makes this pasta dish an absolute winner!

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This recipe is straightforward and utilizes simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for those busy evenings when time is short but flavor is essential.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and melted cheese.
• Flexible Ingredients: Substitute ingredients based on what you have in your pantry—this dish can easily adapt!
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for a hassle-free dinner; it reheats beautifully!
• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of Cajun spices, garlic, and cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to know that this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce uses simple, wholesome ingredients. Nothing fancy here—just good food made from scratch! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Pasta

• 1 pound spaghetti

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try shrimp or diced turkey instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of whole milk for a lighter version.
• Spice it up: If you like more heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add fresh jalapeños!

How to Make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package directions in salted water until al dente. This step is vital as it ensures your pasta will hold its structure when combined with the creamy sauce. Once done, drain it and set aside while you prepare everything else.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, take those bite-sized pieces of chicken and season them generously with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. This not only adds flavor but also gives your chicken a lovely color when cooked.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken pieces. Cook until they are browned and cooked through—around 6–8 minutes should do it! Remove them from the skillet; we’ll add them back later.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In that same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant—this will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma! Next, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Gradually whisk in whole milk and chicken broth while stirring constantly. This helps avoid lumps in your sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; you’ll notice it thickening up beautifully.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Now comes the best part! Add cream cheese and one cup of mozzarella cheese into your simmering sauce, stirring until everything is melted together into a smooth texture. Stir in Parmesan cheese next, along with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return your cooked chicken back into that luscious sauce. Let it simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes so everything heats through nicely.

Step 8: Toss with Pasta

Finally, add your drained spaghetti into the skillet with all that cheesy goodness. Toss everything together until each strand of pasta is coated in that heavenly sauce.

Step 9: Melt More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella on top of your pasta dish. Cover it up for about 2–3 minutes—this allows that cheese to melt perfectly into gooey deliciousness.

Step 10: Serve Up!

Serve hot straight from the skillet! If you’d like some extra flair, garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese before digging in.

With these steps complete, you’re ready to enjoy an amazing meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Cooking this dish should be a fun and enjoyable experience, so here are some tips to ensure your creamy Cajun chicken spaghetti turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping vegetables and measuring out spices in advance can save you time and make the cooking process smoother, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less Cajun seasoning and gradually add more to taste. This way, you can control the spice level to suit your preference.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheese enhance the flavors significantly. The freshness will brighten up the dish and make it even more delicious!

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. This helps achieve that perfect texture without being mushy.

• Let it Sit Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier meal.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Presentation is key when serving this delicious pasta dish! Consider these ideas to make your meal as appealing as it is tasty.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant parsley adds color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Extra Grated Parmesan: Offering a little bowl of grated Parmesan on the side allows guests to customize their servings with an extra cheesy kick.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love heat, providing red pepper flakes lets everyone adjust their spice level according to their taste.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy spaghetti, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate—delicious!
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and brightens up the meal with its tangy dressing, making it a great complement.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds color but also brings a nutritious element to your dinner plate while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables enhances both flavor and presentation; consider bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a colorful side dish.

Enjoy serving up this delightful Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce at your next family dinner or gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the spaghetti to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent excess moisture, place a paper towel in the container before sealing.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different pasta instead of spaghetti for Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like—penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta works beautifully with this creamy sauce.

How spicy is Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?

The spice level depends on how much Cajun seasoning you use. For a milder flavor, start with less seasoning and adjust to your preference. The optional red pepper flakes also add extra heat if desired!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a yummy vegetarian version!

What can I serve with Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. You can also consider steamed vegetables for a healthy side!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that brings comfort to your table. Enjoy every cheesy bite and feel free to share your creations—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!