Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful meal, look no further than this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce! This dish combines tender chicken seasoned with zesty Cajun spices and a rich, creamy garlic sauce that’s just bursting with cheesy goodness. It’s become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike, as it brings everyone to the table with smiles.

The best part? This recipe is simple enough for a quick dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. I love how it balances spice and creaminess, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful pasta dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and simply heat it up when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: Spice it up or tone it down—this recipe lets you adjust flavors to your liking.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of Cajun seasoning and melted cheese creates a truly irresistible dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen or can easily find at the store. 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 Pasta

• 1 pound spaghetti

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

Variations

One of the wonderful things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try shrimp or grilled chicken instead of sautéed chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: Use penne or fettuccine if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook spaghetti according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Draining properly is important so your pasta doesn’t become soggy when combined with the sauce. Set aside while we prepare everything else!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, season your chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. This step adds an incredible depth of flavor that makes each bite memorable.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through—about 6–8 minutes. Once done, remove from skillet and set aside; this ensures your chicken stays juicy while we make the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In that same skillet, melt butter over medium heat before adding minced garlic. Sautéing garlic until fragrant (just about 1 minute) enhances its flavor, setting a delicious base for our creamy sauce.

Step 5: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. This thickens our sauce beautifully; it’s essential for that rich texture we love!

Step 6: Whisk in Liquids

Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bringing this mixture to a gentle simmer helps incorporate all those flavors together smoothly.

Step 7: Add Cheese!

Stir in cream cheese along with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. This step is where our sauce transforms into something irresistibly creamy!

Step 8: Season Your Sauce

Add Parmesan cheese next, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like extra heat! Taste-testing here can help you achieve that perfect balance.

Step 9: Combine Chicken & Sauce

Add cooked chicken back into your luscious sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so those flavors meld perfectly.

Step 10: Toss in Pasta

Now it’s time to add your cooked spaghetti directly into that beautiful sauce! Toss well to coat every strand lovingly—this is where comfort food magic happens.

Step 11: Final Cheese Layer

Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, cover, and let sit for about 2–3 minutes until that cheese melts beautifully over everything.

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve hot! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan on top adds a lovely touch. Gather around the table because this Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is ready to delight everyone!

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

Cooking this delicious dish is a breeze with these helpful tips that will ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheeses can elevate the flavor of your sauce, making it richer and more aromatic.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cooking the chicken just until it’s browned and cooked through will keep it juicy. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken pieces in your pasta.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the red pepper flakes. This way, everyone can enjoy it at their preferred spice level.
• Reserve some pasta water: Before draining your spaghetti, save a cup of pasta water. You can add it to your sauce if it turns out too thick, helping to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
• Let it rest: After combining everything in the skillet, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and allows the cheese to melt thoroughly.

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

Presenting this creamy pasta dish in an appealing way can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some great ideas for serving.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: Grating a little more Parmesan on top just before serving creates a beautiful finish and adds extra cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements the creamy sauce and provides a delightful crunch.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a light dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add nutrients and vibrant colors to your meal while balancing out the richness of the spaghetti.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also provides a nice textural contrast to the creamy pasta.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family or friends with your Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is perfect for meal prep! Whether you want to enjoy it throughout the week or prepare it for a gathering, it stores beautifully and reheats well.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If using a glass dish, make sure it’s labeled as freezer-safe if you plan to freeze any portions.

Freezing

• Portion the spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions; cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

What can I substitute for chicken broth in Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?

You can use vegetable broth or even water mixed with a bit of seasoning as a substitute. It will still provide great flavor!

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The creamy sauce will pair wonderfully regardless of the pasta type.

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

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning used. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes according to your preference!

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 everyone together. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends. Happy cooking!