Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is more than just comfort foodโitโs a rich, savory experience that brings bold Cajun spice together with velvety garlic mozzarella indulgence. This dish isnโt your everyday pasta; itโs the one you make when you want something wildly flavorful and comforting in every single bite.
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Welcome to CookTuneโwhere recipes turn into family traditions. Our story began in a small Southern kitchen filled with music, laughter, and the aroma of soul-hugging dishes passed down through generations. Inspired by our familyโs deep love for bold flavors and cozy meals, we created CookTune to celebrate recipes that speak to your taste buds and your heart. And nothing does that quite like todayโs feature: Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce.
Whether youโre a home cook looking to wow dinner guests or a weekday warrior in search of a simple one-pot wonder, this recipe wraps spicy, cheesy, and creamy elements into one unforgettable forkful. In this article, weโll break down everything you need to master this hearty classicโfrom ingredients and techniques to essential pro tips, FAQ answers, and bonus serving suggestions.
So letโs dive into this soul-satisfying, flavor-rich pasta plate youโll want to make again and again.
Donโt miss our Lemon Shallot Chicken for another zesty poultry favorite.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Makes Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce So Special
The Unique Blend of Creamy and Spicy
The marriage of heat and cheese is no secret to comfort food fans, but Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce takes it to the next level. Youโve got robust Cajun seasoning mingling with sweet, aromatic garlic and smooth melted mozzarella to create a sauce thatโs both sharp and silky. The spicy punch from smoked paprika and red pepper flakes is mellowed out by the buttery cream cheese and milk-based roux, giving you that perfect balance.
Southern Roots Meet Italian Flair
This dish is a melting pot of culinary cultures. While the Cajun spices hail from Louisianaโs iconic Creole cooking, the use of spaghetti and mozzarella brings Italian comfort food into play. This fusion is what makes it so approachableโand unforgettable.
One-Skillet Simplicity, Restaurant-Level Results
Who doesnโt love a pasta dish that tastes like it came from a five-star kitchen but only uses one pot? Youโll brown chicken, create a flavorful roux, melt cheese into a dreamy sauce, and combine it all in a single skillet. Less cleanup. More flavor.
Customizable Heat Level
Want it fiery? Toss in extra red pepper flakes. Prefer it mild and creamy? Dial back the Cajun. This dish adapts to your taste without compromising on texture or richness.
PrintEasy Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
- Diet: Halal
Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with a velvety garlic cream sauce loaded with melty mozzarella and Parmesan. Itโs comforting, spicy, and irresistibly cheesyโperfect for a weeknight dinner or cozy weekend meal.
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
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, season chicken with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6โ8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sautรฉ for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1โ2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add cream cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add cooked chicken back into the sauce and simmer for 2โ3 minutes to heat through.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup mozzarella on top, cover, and let sit for 2โ3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for a faster version.
- Swap spaghetti for fettuccine, linguine, or penne as desired.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- This dish makes great leftoversโstore in the fridge up to 3 days and reheat gently.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ยฝ cups
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Ingredients and Their Roles in Flavor-Building
Cajun-Spiced Chicken: Flavorful Foundation
To start, we season 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. This combo adds depth, earthiness, and a little kick to every bite. Cajun seasoning typically blends paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, oregano, and thymeโperfect for building a bold base flavor.
A splash of olive oil helps the seasoning stick and adds healthy fat for browning. Once seared, the chicken is juicy and crisp on the outsideโa key contrast to the creamy spaghetti.
Pro Tip: Let the seasoned chicken rest for 10 minutes before cooking. This helps the spices permeate the meat more deeply.
Al Dente Spaghetti: The Perfect Pasta Texture
We use 1 pound of spaghetti cooked until just al dente. Why not softer? Because it finishes cooking in the sauce, soaking up all that garlicky, cheesy goodness without turning mushy.
Garlic-Butter Roux: The Sauceโs Rich Heart
Hereโs where the magic begins. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, then stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1/4 cup of flour. This roux thickens the sauce and layers in a nutty, garlicky base.
Check out this flavor-packed Creamy Garlic Seafood Pasta for another garlic-loverโs dream.
Dairy Dream Team: Milk, Broth, Cream Cheese & Cheeses
We use 3 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of chicken broth for the liquid base. The milk provides creaminess, while the broth infuses a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the seasoned chicken.
Once the roux is smooth, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese melt right inโgiving the sauce an ultra-silky texture. Then comes the cheesy trio:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella (mild, melty bliss)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (nutty sharpness)
- And optionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who crave a kick
Optional Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes or sautรฉed mushrooms for extra layers of flavor.
Final Touch: Season to Taste
Finish the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance it all out. Taste as you goโthis step is key to dialing in the richness and spice.
Step-by-Step Method to Cook Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Prep the Chicken with Bold Cajun Seasoning
Start by slicing 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Mix thoroughly so every piece gets coated with that fiery, peppery blend. This is the soul of your Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauceโmake it bold!
Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb flavor while you prep the rest.
Want even more flavor? Marinate it overnight for a deeper Cajun punch.
Boil the Pasta Al Dente
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 1 pound of spaghetti according to package directions, but stop at โal denteโ (about 9โ11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
That slightly firm bite is crucialโit holds up well when tossed in a thick, cheesy sauce.
Donโt miss our twist on fusion pasta in Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls for another family favorite.
Sear the Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6โ8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through. The edges should be a little crisp, locking in that spice.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Tip: Donโt overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming the chicken.
Build the Garlic Butter Roux
In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sautรฉ for 1 minuteโjust until fragrant, not browned.
Now whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. This step sets the stage for a thick and flavorful sauce.
Whisk in the Liquids for a Creamy Base
Gradually add 3 cups whole milk and 1 cup chicken broth, whisking as you pour to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for 3โ4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Youโll see the transformationโthin turns rich, and the base starts to coat the back of your spoon.
Want to boost the flavor? Sub half the broth with white wine for a restaurant-level twist.
Stir in the Cheeses for Ultimate Creaminess
Lower the heat and stir in 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Then slowly add:
- 1ยฝ cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Stir until everything is melty, gooey, and incredibly creamy. The result? A sauce that wraps every strand of spaghetti in cheesy garlic heaven.
Add red pepper flakes here if you like extra heat!
Toss Pasta and Chicken into the Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss thoroughly, making sure every noodle is coated in the creamy Cajun garlic mozzarella sauce. Let it simmer together for a minute so the flavors marry beautifully.
This is where it all comes togetherโthe boldness of the chicken, the creaminess of the cheese, and the backbone of the pasta.
Broil for a Bubbly Finish
Transfer everything into an oven-safe dish or deep skillet. Sprinkle the remaining ยฝ cup of mozzarella cheese on top and place under the broiler for 2โ3 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
This final step adds a cheesy crust that seals in all the goodness beneath.
Watch closely! Broilers work fast and can burn quickly.
Serve immediately, and donโt forget a sprinkle of chopped parsley or crushed red pepper for garnish if youโre feeling fancy.
Looking for more cozy comfort food? Discover great ideas like Chicken Tenders in Cajun Lemon Butter Sauce.
Customizations, Variations & Smart Prep for Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Make It Your Own: Substitutions That Still Shine
The beauty of Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce lies in its flexibility. Whether youโre out of ingredients or cooking for dietary needs, hereโs how to adapt without losing the magic.
Swap the Spaghetti:
Although spaghetti is classic, you can substitute with:
- Fettuccine for a thicker bite
- Penne for a chunkier, baked-style finish
- Gluten-free pasta to make this Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce celiac-friendly
Chicken Options:
- Donโt have boneless chicken breasts? Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Try shredded rotisserie chicken to save timeโjust toss it with Cajun seasoning and warm it before combining with sauce.
Cheese Swaps:
- No mozzarella? Use Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend.
- Want stronger flavor? Smoked gouda adds an exciting twist to your Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce.
Adjust the Heat Without Losing Flavor
We all have different spice thresholds. The Cajun seasoning in Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce already brings heat, but you can easily tune it:
For less heat:
- Use a mild Cajun blend
- Skip the red pepper flakes
- Add more cream cheese or milk to mellow the spice
For more heat:
- Add cayenne pepper
- Double up on smoked paprika
- Stir in hot sauce during the sauce phase
Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce should excite your palateโnot overpower it.
Meal Prep Tips: Cook Once, Enjoy Twice
This dish is a weeknight hero and a meal prep favorite. Hereโs how to make Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce work for future you:
Fridge Storage:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess
Freezer Option:
- Cool completely, then portion into containers
- Freeze for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet with a touch of butter
Batch Cooking:
- Double the recipe and freeze half before broiling
- When ready to eat, top with cheese and broil for fresh-out-the-oven vibes
Discover great ideas like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves if youโre craving more freezer-friendly meals that deliver full flavor.
Vegetarian Version of Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Yes, itโs possibleโand still delicious!
- Replace chicken with roasted mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth
- Increase the mozzarella or add vegan cheese alternatives for richness
Youโll still get that signature creamy garlic sauce, just with a plant-based twist.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce Like a Pro
Make It Look as Good as It Tastes
When it comes to Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce, presentation goes a long way. Youโve spent time layering bold spices and creating a dreamy, creamy garlic mozzarella sauceโnow itโs time to plate it like a showstopper.
Best Serving Dishes:
- Use a deep white pasta bowl to let the colors popโespecially the golden Cajun seasoning and bubbly cheese.
- For family-style presentation, serve directly from a cast iron skillet or ceramic baking dish. It keeps the dish warm and rustic.
Garnish for Impact:
- For color and freshness, add some finely chopped scallions or parsley.
- Add a light dusting of paprika or a few red pepper flakes on top for visual appeal and flavor
- For an extra layer, drizzle a little garlic-infused olive oil just before serving
These simple touches elevate Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce from comforting to unforgettable.
Pairing Ideas to Complete the Meal
As rich and satisfying as this creamy Cajun pasta is, the right sides can make your table feel complete.
Crispy or Light Sides That Pair Well:
- Toasted garlic bread or cheesy focaccia
- A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted green beans or grilled asparagus
- A simple cucumber-tomato salad to cool down the Cajun spice
Bonus: Want to impress guests? Serve this dish alongside white wineโSauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pair well with spicy, creamy sauces.
Nutrition Profile of Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Hereโs what youโre really getting per serving (approximate values based on 6 servings):
Nutrient | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | ~640 kcal |
Protein | 38g |
Carbohydrates | 48g |
Fats | 32g |
Saturated Fat | 14g |
Sodium | ~880mg |
Calcium | High (from cheese and milk) |
Vitamin A & C | Moderate (from garlic and paprika) |
Health Tip: To lighten it up, reduce the mozzarella by 1/2 cup and use low-fat milk or light cream cheese. Youโll still get a rich texture with fewer calories.
Leftovers That Taste Even Better
Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce tastes fantastic the next dayโand sometimes even better after the spices settle in. Hereโs how to make the most of leftovers:
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.
- Avoid microwaving without stirringโheat it slowly and evenly for best texture.
- For a fun twist, repurpose into a Cajun pasta bake by adding more cheese on top and baking until bubbly.
Want another rich dinner that reheats like a dream? Donโt miss our Creamy Garlic Seafood Pasta for another indulgent yet easy meal.
Crowd-Sized Tip
Hosting guests? Use a big casserole dish and double the recipe. You can assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate, and just broil before serving. Itโs perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just impressing the in-laws.
The result? A gorgeous golden top, layers of melty garlic mozzarella sauce, perfectly seasoned Cajun chicken, and pasta that feels like a warm hug.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
What is Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?
Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a spicy, cheesy pasta dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, garlic butter roux, and a decadent mix of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan all tossed with al dente spaghetti. Itโs bold, rich, and loaded with flavor in every bite. The garlic mozzarella sauce gives it a silky finish, while the Cajun spices bring heat and complexity.
This isnโt your typical creamy pastaโCreamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce blends Southern-style spice with comforting Italian textures, making it a standout dish on any dinner table.
How do I make Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce less spicy?
To tone down the spice in Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce, start by using a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the quantity to 1 tablespoon. Skip the optional red pepper flakes, and add an extra ounce or two of cream cheese to mellow the sauce further.
You can also stir in a splash of heavy cream or whole milk at the end of cooking. This softens the heat while keeping your Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce deliciously smooth and flavorful.
Can I prepare Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce in advance?
Yes! One of the great things about Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is how well it holds up for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the full dish up to the broiling step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
When ready to serve, simply top with the remaining mozzarella and broil until bubbly. The garlic mozzarella sauce stays creamy, and the Cajun chicken retains its bold flavorโeven after reheating.
Is Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. To freeze Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers in single servings or meal-size batches. It keeps well for up to 2 months.
When youโre ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a pan with a bit of milk or broth. The texture of the garlic mozzarella sauce holds up incredibly well, making it perfect for meal prep.
What makes Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce different from Alfredo?
While both are creamy pasta dishes, Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce stands out with its unique spice profile and robust flavor layers. Alfredo is usually made with just butter, cream, and Parmesan. In contrast, this recipe adds garlic, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, and cream cheese for a much deeper flavor.
Also, the mozzarella and Cajun seasoning combo gives Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce a tangy, spicy richness that traditional Alfredo just doesnโt match.
Whatโs the best way to reheat Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?
For best results, reheat Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the creamy garlic mozzarella sauce, and stir gently until heated through.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can separate the sauce. But if you do, reheat in short bursts and stir frequently to maintain that luscious texture.
Can I use different types of pasta in Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce?
Yes! While spaghetti is classic, Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is flexible enough to work with many pasta shapes. Try linguine for an elegant twist, penne for a baked-style bite, or even fettuccine for a hearty feel.
Conclusion: Why Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce Deserves a Spot in Your Weekly Rotation
If thereโs one dish that delivers on comfort, spice, and creamy satisfaction all in a single skillet, itโs undeniably Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. From the moment you sear that juicy, Cajun-seasoned chicken to the last golden, bubbling layer of mozzarella under the broiler, every step builds a flavor experience thatโs both bold and deeply satisfying. This isnโt just a pasta dishโitโs a weeknight dinner savior and weekend indulgence all in one.
You now have everything in your cooking arsenalโfrom a full breakdown of flavorful ingredients to easy prep tips, swap ideas, and the best way to serve this saucy creation. Whether youโre meal-prepping for a busy week or cooking to impress guests, Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce will never disappoint.
Looking for even more rich, Southern-inspired pasta meals?
Discover this Creamy Garlic Chicken with Roasted Baby Potatoes recipe that pairs beautifully with buttery sides.