Introduction

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken coated in bold Cajun spices is combined with a rich, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to spaghetti. It’s an easy way to bring a bit of Southern flair to your table.

A white plate holds a dish with two main layers. The bottom layer is creamy spaghetti coated in a light yellow sauce with small green herb pieces mixed in. Scattered bits of bright red tomato add color near the edges. On top, there are several pieces of grilled chicken, golden brown with char marks and sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The chicken looks juicy and stacked neatly over the pasta. The background is a wooden table surface softly blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Instructions

Step 1: Cook spaghetti according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, season chicken with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 6: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Add cream cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 9: Add cooked chicken back into the sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
Step 10: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Step 11: Sprinkle remaining 1 cup mozzarella on top, cover, and let sit for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
Step 12: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Swap half-and-half or heavy cream for whole milk to make the sauce richer.
Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. It can also be reheated in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

How to Serve

The image shows a white round pan filled with creamy fettuccine pasta topped with sliced grilled chicken breasts. The bottom layer is the fettuccine pasta coated in a smooth, light cream sauce with green parsley sprinkled evenly over it. On top, there are two rows of golden brown grilled chicken pieces with grill marks, placed side by side. A woman's hand holding tongs lifts a small bunch of fettuccine noodles from the pan, revealing the creamy sauce clinging to the pasta strands. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. You can also use a milder paprika or add extra cream cheese and mozzarella to mellow out the heat.