Name: ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips; 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; ½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken); 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp salted butter, divided; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1½ cups heavy cream; ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar; ¾ cup grated Parmesan (for the sauce); 2 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp dried basil; ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 12 oz spaghetti; Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

If you’re ready to bring bold Louisiana flair to your weeknight dinner, ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is the answer! Creamy, smoky, and packed with irresistible flavor, this dish transforms classic spaghetti into something unforgettable. Picture juicy, parmesan-crusted chicken slices nestled atop a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, all cloaked in a velvety, cheesy Cajun sauce with just the right hit of heat. Whether you’re looking to impress a crowd or simply treat yourself, this recipe is your gateway to comfort food heaven—with a spicy twist!

ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how pantry staples are transformed into the vibrant, multi-layered flavors of ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce. Every ingredient plays a superstar role—whether it’s the creamy sauce, the kick of Cajun spices, or the golden, cheesy chicken. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a quick tip for each:

Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken for easy slicing and juicy results every time.
Spaghetti: Classic pasta shape that soaks up every drop of the creamy Cajun sauce.
Olive oil: Helps create a beautiful golden sear on your chicken strips.
Salted butter: Makes the sauce extra luscious and infuses richness throughout the dish.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings aromatic depth to both chicken and sauce.
Cajun seasoning: The spice blend that ignites this recipe’s signature heat and color.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that pops against the creamy sauce.
Salt and pepper: Essential for highlighting every layer of flavor—don’t be shy with a pinch or two!
Grated Parmesan (for crusting): Crusting the chicken with Parmesan makes it irresistibly savory and crisp.
Heavy cream: Creates the base for a rich, smooth, and dreamy sauce.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Lends extra depth and keeps the sauce from getting too thick.
Shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully for that classic cheese pull you crave.
Shredded sharp cheddar: Offers an edge of sharpness to balance the creamy sauce.
Grated Parmesan (for sauce): Adds nutty, salty complexity to finish off the cream sauce in style.
Cream cheese: Softens the texture of the sauce and brings even more richness.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that accents the herbs in this Southern-inspired dish.
Dried basil: Adds a sweet, earthy herbal note to the final sauce.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like their ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce extra fiery.
Fresh chopped parsley: Adds a fresh pop of green and brightens every bite right at the end.

How to Make ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your spaghetti and give it a quick stir so nothing sticks. Cook until just al dente, because the pasta will soak up more yumminess later. Once it’s ready, drain it, lightly toss with a splash of olive oil, and set aside so those gorgeous strands stay separate.

Step 2: Season and Crust the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, pat your chicken strips dry—this helps the seasonings cling and ensures a tantalizing crust. Generously sprinkle on Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then press grated Parmesan onto each piece so every bite is packed with flavor and crunch. Don’t skimp on this step—it’s what makes the chicken unforgettable in your ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce!

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear your chicken strips until golden and cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes. In the final minute, toss in a bit more butter and half your minced garlic, swirling everything together so the chicken soaks up a burst of buttery, garlicky goodness. Remove the chicken and set aside (try not to snack on it all now!).

Step 4: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Drop another knob of butter into the skillet and toss in the remaining garlic, letting it sizzle for 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, turning up the heat just until it starts to bubble. Now, whisk in the cream cheese and watch as the sauce becomes luxuriously smooth.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses and Seasonings

Little by little, sprinkle in mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and grated Parmesan, stirring between each. Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you want more heat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper—this is where the sauce transforms from tasty to utterly craveable.

Step 6: Toss Pasta Into the Sauce

Add your cooked spaghetti straight into the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to gently toss and coat every strand in that spicy, cheesy goodness. Let it sit over low heat for a minute or two, giving the pasta a chance to soak up every last drop of the Cajun cream.

Step 7: Plate and Top

Twirl the saucy spaghetti onto plates, then pile on the golden parmesan-crusted chicken. Finish with a shower of fresh parsley for color and a just-picked freshness. Your ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is ready to dazzle!

How to Serve ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Go big on garnish! A generous handful of chopped fresh parsley brightens up the plate and adds a vibrant, herby contrast to the creamy, spicy sauce. If you want extra flair, sprinkle a pinch more grated Parmesan or a light dusting of smoked paprika.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs fabulously with simple sides: think garlic bread to soak up extra sauce, a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli to keep things light and balanced next to your ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For date night or dinner parties, try twirling the spaghetti into neat nests and setting the chicken slices right on top. Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase all the cheesy sauce, and drizzle a little extra Cajun cream across the top for that irresistible chef’s touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store your ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce stays creamy, and the flavors deepen to make day-two lunches extra delicious.

Freezing

If you want to freeze a batch, let the pasta and chicken cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. While the sauce may thicken when frozen, a quick splash of cream or milk during reheating brings it right back to life.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a spoonful of milk or broth to recreate the original saucy consistency. Stir regularly to keep the cheese smooth and the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic, penne, fettuccine, or even linguine work beautifully in ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce. Just aim for a shape that holds sauce well for maximum flavor impact.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

No problem. Make your own by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, a bit of cayenne, salt, and pepper. This brings all the spicy, robust flavors key to ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce.

How spicy is the sauce?

The beauty of ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is how adjustable it is. You control the heat by dialing the red pepper flakes up or down, so you can go mild or bring the fire!

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use reduced-fat cheeses for a lighter take, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. You can also add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for even more nutrition in your ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce.

Can it be made gluten-free?

Easily—just use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. Double-check your Cajun seasoning to make sure it’s gluten-free and you’re all set for a safe and scrumptious meal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner with a creamy, spicy twist, ken Spaghetti in Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is bound to become a new favorite. It’s easy, deeply flavorful, and unapologetically indulgent. Give it a go—you’re just one skillet away from a meal your friends and family will crave again and again!