This Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti combines juicy chicken with zesty Cajun spices. The creamy sauce brings everything together for a cozy meal everyone will love!
Who doesn’t love a one-pot dish that’s packed with flavor? I always add extra cheese on top because, let’s face it, more cheese makes everything better! 🧀
I enjoy making this dish on busy nights since it’s easy and quick. Just toss everything in and let the flavors mingle for a comforting dinner that warms the soul!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using spaghetti or linguine for this dish. You can easily swap them with penne or fettuccine if you have those on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are classic choices here. For a twist, you could use shrimp or even cooked sausage for a different flavor punch.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make a quick mix using paprika, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Adjust the spices based on your heat preference!
Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Cheese: Parmesan is lovely for its saltiness and depth. If you like a bolder taste, try using Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar for something different!
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
The key to a creamy sauce that coats your pasta perfectly lies in how you combine the ingredients. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a gentle simmer when adding the chicken broth and cream. This helps prevent curdling.
- Make sure to stir continuously as you add cheese. This will help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- If the sauce feels too thick, you can always add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
And remember, let the sauce simmer gently to bring out all those delicious flavors. Happy cooking!
Bold And Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and veggies, and about 15 minutes for cooking the pasta and bringing everything together in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente following the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste. Make sure they are well coated, as this will give your dish that bold flavor.
3. Brown the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned chicken strips and cook them until they are browned and cooked through—this should take about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Don’t rush this step; the smell will be amazing!
5. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes and smoked paprika, letting it all simmer together for 2-3 minutes.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer and cook for about 4-5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
7. Incorporate Cheese and Chicken:
Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes for a nice, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, giving it a good stir to combine everything.
8. Mix in the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the noodles are completely coated with that delicious creamy Cajun sauce!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor to your meal!
Enjoy your flavorful Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests.
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even cooked sausage. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use extra veggies, like zucchini or mushrooms, for added flavor. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth for a complete vegetarian version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Definitely! While Parmesan adds a nice flavor, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamier texture. Just make sure it melts well!