Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

If you love creamy, indulgent pasta dishes with bold flavors, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a must-try. This Cajun-Italian fusion recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with spaghetti in a rich three-cheese garlic sauce that’s perfectly spiced and ready in just 35 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that feels decadent yet approachable—a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner or a special treat for family gatherings.

With a combination of Cajun seasoning, Parmesan, mozzarella, Velveeta, and cream cheese, this pasta is comforting, creamy, and flavorful. The sauce clings beautifully to each strand of spaghetti, while the seared chicken on top adds protein and texture. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of bold Southern flavors, this recipe hits all the right notes.

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Introduction

Creamy pasta dishes are a classic staple in home kitchens, but when you combine the bold spice of Cajun seasoning with a cheesy Parmesan sauce, it becomes something truly special. This recipe takes simple ingredients and elevates them into a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.

The chicken is seared to golden perfection, the pasta is cooked al dente, and the sauce combines Velveeta, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a luxurious texture. A hint of Italian seasoning rounds out the flavors, while fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness.

This dish is perfect for:

• Weeknight family dinners
• Casual dinner parties
• Comfort food cravings
• Meal prep that feels indulgent

What sets this recipe apart is its fusion of Southern spice and Italian richness, creating a creamy, flavorful pasta that satisfies without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
• Combines Cajun spice with creamy, cheesy goodness
• One-pan sauce makes cleanup easier
• Perfectly balances protein, pasta, and cheese
• Versatile: serve with salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 6 people. Ingredients are grouped by function for clarity.

Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thick strips
• 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti

Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Garnish

• Chopped parsley

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk
• Grater (for fresh Parmesan, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Pat chicken strips dry. Season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 6–7 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

4. Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.

6. Add the Cheeses

Lower heat and add Velveeta and cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Gradually add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until the sauce thickens.

7. Season the Sauce

Add Italian seasoning and additional Cajun seasoning to taste. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

8. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss in the cooked spaghetti, stirring until evenly coated in the creamy Cajun cheese sauce. Simmer 1–2 minutes for flavors to meld.

9. Serve

Top the pasta with the seared chicken, spoon extra sauce over the top, and garnish with parsley. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
• Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition.

Flavor Profile

This dish is rich, creamy, and slightly spicy. The Cajun seasoning adds a warm, smoky kick, while the combination of Velveeta, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a silky, cheesy texture. The garlic adds aromatic depth, and parsley balances the richness with a fresh note.

Suggested Sides

• Garlic bread or crusty French bread
• Light green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables for balance

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (approx. 1/6 of recipe):

• Calories: 930 kcal
• Protein: 47 g
• Fat: 62 g (Saturated 34 g, Unsaturated 26 g)
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Cholesterol: 210 mg

Dietary Notes: Halal, protein-rich, indulgent pasta dish.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Cook pasta slightly under al dente if making ahead; it will finish cooking when reheated with sauce.
• Chicken can be pre-cooked and stored separately to save time.
• Store sauce in the refrigerator and reheat gently before combining with pasta and chicken.
• Garnish with parsley just before serving to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta?
Yes, penne or fettuccine works well with this sauce.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.

How spicy is this dish?
Moderate. Adjust Cajun seasoning or add cayenne to taste.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, add it at the end to warm through without overcooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Sauce and pasta can be frozen separately, but cheese may slightly change texture upon thawing.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta in wide bowls with chicken strips arranged on top. Spoon extra creamy sauce over the chicken for a restaurant-style presentation. Finish with fresh parsley to brighten the dish visually and add a fresh flavor note.

Recipe Variations

• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Use smoked gouda or fontina in place of Velveeta for a different cheese flavor.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten flavors just before serving.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breasts

Slicing the chicken into thick strips ensures juicy, tender pieces that sear beautifully and hold up against the rich sauce.

Velveeta & Cream Cheese

These cheeses melt smoothly and create a silky, creamy sauce. Combined with mozzarella and Parmesan, they give this dish a luxurious texture and depth of flavor.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat chicken dry to ensure a good sear.
• Don’t overcook garlic; sauté briefly for maximum flavor without bitterness.
• Gradually add cheese to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end to balance spice, salt, and creaminess.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• Freezing is best done by storing pasta and sauce separately; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Garnish with parsley after reheating to retain freshness and color.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	930 kcal
Protein	47 g
Carbohydrates	48 g
Fat	62 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	950 mg
Cholesterol	210 mg

Expanded Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a celebration of comfort food with a bold Cajun twist. Rich, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want indulgence without hours of prep.

With tender chicken, creamy three-cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, it’s a dish that impresses every time. Serve it with a light salad or garlic bread, and you’ve got a complete, crowd-pleasing meal. This recipe is simple enough for busy nights but decadent enough to make any dinner feel special.

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