Bold & Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti – A Spicy One-Pot Comfort Classic

When you’re craving a dinner that’s creamy, spicy, and packed with personality, this Bold & Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti delivers every time. It’s a one-pan pasta dish that combines juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, tender spaghetti noodles, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce laced with smoky seasoning.

Rooted in the Southern tradition of bold spices and creamy comfort food, this dish marries Louisiana-style flavor with the cozy indulgence of a creamy pasta. It’s weeknight-friendly but indulgent enough for a weekend treat—ready in about 30 minutes with a balance of spice, creaminess, and savory depth.

If you’re a fan of Alfredo or creamy tomato pasta, but want something with a bit more heat and edge, this Cajun chicken spaghetti will hit the spot.

Ingredients Overview

This dish combines classic pantry staples with Southern-inspired flavor, creating a comforting yet complex meal with a Cajun twist.

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Cut into strips or bite-sized pieces. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts also work beautifully.

• Cajun seasoning – A blend of paprika, garlic, cayenne, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. You can use store-bought or homemade.

• Olive oil or butter – For searing the chicken and building flavor.

• Salt & black pepper – Adjust based on how salty your Cajun blend is.

For the Sauce:

• Garlic – Adds warmth and depth; use freshly minced for best flavor.

• Heavy cream – Forms the rich, velvety base of the sauce.

• Chicken broth – Adds savory depth and thins the cream slightly.

• Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding saltiness and body.

• Diced tomatoes (optional) – Adds a little brightness and contrast.

For the Pasta:

• Spaghetti – Classic for this recipe, but you can substitute with linguine, fettuccine, or a gluten-free variety.

• Pasta water – Reserve a bit to help loosen and emulsify the sauce.

Optional Add-ins:

• Bell peppers – Sautéed along with the chicken for a pop of sweetness and color.

• Spinach or kale – Stir in at the end for added greens.

• Red pepper flakes – For extra heat lovers.

Swaps & Tips:

• Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.

• For dairy-free, use unsweetened coconut milk and vegan Parmesan.

• Gluten-free spaghetti works well—just cook it separately and add it at the end.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This bold and creamy pasta comes together quickly in one pan with a few strategic steps to maximize flavor.

1. Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice 1 lb of chicken into strips. Toss in 1–1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning, coating well.

Heat 1–2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to get that nice sear.

2. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

In the same pan (lower heat to medium), add:

• 1 tbsp butter

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then stir in:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 can diced tomatoes (optional, drained)

Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan—they add flavor!

Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice if desired.

3. Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil a pot of salted water and cook 8 oz spaghetti until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Add the drained spaghetti directly into the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.

4. Finish with Chicken & Garnish

Return the cooked chicken (and any juices) to the skillet. Stir everything together and simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.

Garnish with:

• Extra Parmesan

• Fresh chopped parsley or scallions

• A light squeeze of lemon for brightness (optional)

Pro Tip: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving—the sauce thickens beautifully as it rests.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Kitchen Tips:

• Season to taste after adding chicken broth—some Cajun blends are saltier than others.

• Use a microplane to finely grate the Parmesan for the silkiest texture.

• Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for deeper flavor.

Variations:

• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Swap chicken for shrimp (cook quickly and remove before making sauce).

• Spicy Cajun Alfredo: Use only cream, Parmesan, and garlic for a Cajun-spiced Alfredo feel.

• Roasted Veggie Version: Add roasted zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes for a vegetarian spin.

Substitutions:

• Low carb: Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

• Dairy-free: Swap coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly sauce.

• Gluten-free: Use chickpea pasta, lentil pasta, or your favorite gluten-free spaghetti.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This Cajun chicken spaghetti is a versatile dish for:

• Weeknight dinners with crusty bread or a green salad

• Dinner parties—it presents beautifully in a big skillet

• Family-style weekend meals

• Meal prep—leftovers reheat well for lunch

Perfect pairings:

• Garlic bread or focaccia

• Roasted broccoli or asparagus

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay

• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber slices

This dish delivers both comfort and boldness—a rare and delightful combo that satisfies every time.

Nutritional & Health Notes

While rich, this dish can be adjusted to meet various dietary goals. Using lean chicken breast, moderate cheese, and light cream makes it more balanced without losing flavor.

Approximate nutrition per serving (1 of 4 portions):

• Calories: ~520–580

• Protein: ~35g

• Carbs: ~40g

• Fat: ~25g

To lighten it up:

• Use grilled chicken breast and whole wheat pasta

• Use half cream and half low-fat milk

• Add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms to stretch the sauce

It’s filling and indulgent but can still be part of a balanced meal.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

A1: Absolutely. Just shred or chop the chicken and add it at the end. Sauté the garlic, then proceed with the sauce as usual. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

Q2: Can I make it without cream?

A2: You can substitute half-and-half or even evaporated milk, though the sauce will be a little thinner. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream or cashew cream works well.

Q3: Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

A3: It can be! Most blends have cayenne pepper, so spice levels vary. Start with less and add more to taste, or make your own blend for better control.

Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?

A4: Yes. The sauce and chicken can be made ahead and stored separately. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream, then toss with cooked pasta just before serving.

Q5: Can I freeze Cajun chicken spaghetti?

A5: It’s best eaten fresh, but it can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers. Reheat gently, adding a bit of broth to revive the sauce.

Q6: What other proteins can I use?

A6: Shrimp, sausage, or even leftover turkey work great. Just adjust the cooking time—shrimp cooks quickly, and sausage adds a smoky richness.

Q7: What vegetables go well with this dish?

A7: Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted corn make excellent additions. Sauté them with the garlic or stir them in at the end.

Print