This Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti is a tasty dish that packs a flavorful punch! It’s made with juicy chicken, zesty spices, and spaghetti noodles, all mixed up in a creamy sauce.
If you love a bit of kick in your meals, this one’s for you! I always serve it with garlic bread; it’s the perfect way to soak up all that delicious sauce. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: The classic choice for this dish, but you could switch it up with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you have on hand. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great options if you’re looking for healthier alternatives.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for quick cooking. However, shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked shrimp can save you time and add a different flavor profile!
Cajun Seasoning: This blend gives your dish that bold flavor! If you don’t have it, you can mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level to your liking!
Heavy Cream: This adds a lovely richness but can be replaced with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream if you’re looking to cut calories or are dairy-free.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love cheddar, you could swap in pepper jack for more heat, or leave it out altogether for a lighter dish. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative for a cheesy flavor!
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly for This Dish?
Cooking the chicken well is key to getting that tasty flavor in your spaghetti. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by cutting your chicken into strips for quick and even cooking.
- Season the chicken evenly with Cajun seasoning before cooking, so every bite is flavorful.
- Heat the oil until hot, then add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to allow proper browning.
- Cook on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping once until golden and cooked through—no pink should be showing.
- Remove from the skillet before cooking the veggies, as overcooked chicken can become dry.
By following these steps, you can ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful, adding that special touch to your Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti!
Bold And Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious, flavorful meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (which means it should still have a little bite to it). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken strips and season them evenly with the Cajun seasoning. This will give them a flavorful kick that’s signature to Cajun dishes!
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, drizzle in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced green and red bell peppers, along with the onion. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re softened and starting to get nice and colorful.
5. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
6. Create the Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to lift all those flavorful bits stuck on the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Cheese It Up (Optional):
If you’d like, add in the shredded cheddar cheese at this point. Stir it well until melted and creamy. This adds an extra layer of richness to your dish!
8. Combine It All:
Add the cooked spaghetti and the sautéed chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently so the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce and the chicken and veggies are evenly mixed.
9. Season to Taste:
Give your dish a taste! You can adjust the seasoning by adding salt, black pepper, or even some extra Cajun seasoning if you want it spicier.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness! Serve immediately, and don’t forget the garlic bread on the side to soak up that delicious sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti!
Can I Use Shrimp Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp is a fantastic alternative for this recipe. Just be sure to cook them until they turn pink and are opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Add them at the same time you would add the chicken!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute; just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up if it becomes too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning to taste or add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust it gradually to avoid overwhelming spice levels!
