Creamy Cajun Chkn Spaghetti w/Garlic Mozz Sauce
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
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Toss until well coated.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually add the milk and chicken broth while whisking to create a smooth sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Lower the heat and add the cream cheese. Stir until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Stir in 1½ cups of mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
Add the cooked spaghetti and chicken into the skillet. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce. Transfer to a large serving dish or oven-safe pan. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a perfect blend of spicy Cajun flavors and rich, creamy textures. Cajun seasoning typically combines paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme, delivering a warm and savory taste that pairs beautifully with the smoky paprika used in this recipe. The use of boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures lean protein, making this dish not only delicious but also balanced. The sauce creation deserves special attention: starting with a roux made from butter and flour helps achieve a perfect thickening base, while the gradual addition of whole milk and chicken broth creates a velvety smooth texture. Incorporating softened cream cheese adds richness and tang, enhancing the sauce’s creaminess. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses not only melts seamlessly but adds layers of flavor, with mozzarella providing gooey stretchiness and Parmesan contributing a nutty, salty bite. Using freshly minced garlic boosts the aromatic profile significantly, complementing the cream sauce beautifully. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes are an optional but recommended addition to elevate flavors further. Cooking spaghetti until al dente ensures the pasta holds texture well, allowing it to absorb just the right amount of sauce without becoming mushy. Broiling the assembled dish with an extra sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that enhances both presentation and taste. To customize this recipe, consider adding vegetables like sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color. Alternatively, substituting chicken with shrimp or sausage can provide different protein options to suit various preferences. This hearty yet easy-to-make meal is ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a comforting yet exciting taste of Cajun-inspired cuisine right in your kitchen.