This Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with spicy flavors and juicy chicken, all mixed with pasta for a satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are great choices, but feel free to use any pasta you love! Penne or fettuccine also work well and bring their own twist to the dish.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular option, but you can switch to thighs for more flavor. You could also use shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and oregano can be a good substitute! Add a dash of cayenne if you like it spicy.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. The sauce may be slightly thinner, but still tasty!
Bell Pepper & Onion: Any color of bell pepper works! If you have other veggies on hand like zucchini or mushrooms, feel free to toss those in for added flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Dish?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to keeping it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil. This ensures a good sear on the chicken.
- Cook the chicken in batches if needed. Too much chicken in the pan can steam it instead of browning it.
- Let it brown without moving it too much for even cooking. Flip only when it’s golden brown on one side.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F. This ensures it’s cooked through but not overdone.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken that complements your Cajun spaghetti beautifully!
How to Make Bold And Cajun Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Veggies:
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning until they’re evenly coated. This will give the chicken that delicious spicy kick!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté them for about 4 minutes, or until the veggies are softened. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Then, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you love more heat. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens a little, usually about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet and mix them into the sauce to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy Cajun sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this delicious Bold and Cajun Chicken Spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture—it’s sure to be a hit!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and linguine are great options, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you want more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper to the sauce or even some diced jalapeños. You can also use a spicier Cajun seasoning blend to kick up the spice level!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Simply store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the sauce, add the cooked pasta, and enjoy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to ensure even heating.
