This Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti is a fun mix of flavors! With juicy chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that promises to make your taste buds dance.
Trust me, every bite is a little party in your mouth! I love how quick it comes together; it’s perfect for a bustling weeknight dinner. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: The classic choice for this dish, but you can easily swap it for other pasta types like penne or linguine if you’re feeling adventurous. Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber!
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend gives the dish its bold flavor. If you’re out of Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and black pepper can work as a substitute. Adjust the heat to your liking!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, but thighs can add more flavor. For a lighter option, shredded rotisserie chicken is quick and just as tasty.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce extra creamy. If you’re looking to lighten it up, half-and-half or even coconut milk works well. Just be aware that coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: For a rich, cheesy taste, grated Parmesan is perfect. If you want a different flavor, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! Here’s how:
- Cut chicken into even strips for uniform cooking.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat nicely.
- Cook the chicken without moving it for a few minutes to get a good brown color.
- Use a meat thermometer: chicken should be cooked to 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
With these tips, your chicken will be flavorful and tender, matching perfectly with your tasty spaghetti dish!
Bold And Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (yellow or red), diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, and then about 20 minutes to create the sauce and bring everything together. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is well coated.
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet. Cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes so the flavors meld together nicely.
6. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Mix in Cheese and Season:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it’s melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
8. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained spaghetti. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce and all ingredients are nicely combined.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Plate up your delicious Cajun chicken spaghetti and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Enjoy it hot, and feel free to serve it with some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal!
Enjoy your bold and creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti, bursting with flavor and a little spicy kick!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! To kick up the heat, you can add more Cajun seasoning, or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. If you love spicy food, feel free to adjust to your heat preference!
