Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

introduction

Who doesn’t love a plate of creamy, spicy, cheesy pasta? When Cajun-seasoned chicken meets garlic-infused mozzarella sauce and wraps around tender spaghetti, magic happens. This dish is where comfort food shakes hands with Southern spice and Italian flair — all in a single bowl. Whether you’re cooking for the family on a weeknight or impressing guests at a potluck, this creamy Cajun chicken spaghetti has your back.

From its flavorful roots to easy cooking steps, tips, and dietary swaps, we’ll walk you through every sizzling step. So grab a fork — or better yet, a spoon — because you’re going to want every last drop of this garlicky goodness.

Table of Contents

Key Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

When it comes to building bold flavor in under an hour, every ingredient matters. From the Cajun-seasoned chicken to the rich garlic-infused cheese sauce, each element adds a layer of comfort, spice, and texture that brings this pasta dish to life.

Chicken, Cheese, Pasta, and More: What You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the must-haves for the creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe:

Protein: Cajun Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning – You can use a store-bought mix or make your own for better control over the spice

The chicken soaks up the seasoning like a dream. It gives this dish its bold, smoky kick.

Pasta: The Comfort Base

12 oz spaghetti – Regular or thin spaghetti works well
Alternative: Try fettuccine, linguine, or even rotini if you’re after a twist

Spaghetti is perfect here. Its long strands catch the creamy garlic mozzarella sauce just right.

Cheesy Garlic Sauce: Creamy, Buttery, Dreamy

4 cloves garlic, minced – For that irresistible aroma and deep flavor
2 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp olive oil – The fat helps sauté the garlic and build the base
1 cup heavy cream – This gives the sauce its velvety texture
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The star of the show!
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential to balance the flavors

Not sure which mozzarella to use? This cheese guide breaks down types for melting and cooking.

Substitution Options for Dietary Needs or Ingredient Swaps

You can tailor this Southern-style creamy chicken spaghetti to match your needs without sacrificing flavor.

Dairy-Free or Vegan Alternatives

Swap heavy cream with unsweetened coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like oat cream
Replace mozzarella cheese with vegan mozzarella shreds
Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a protein-rich vegan twist

These substitutions still yield a creamy Cajun pasta dish without the dairy load.

Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Options

Use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta
Thickening the sauce? Try arrowroot starch instead of flour

Toning Down the Heat

Mix half Cajun seasoning with Italian herbs to mellow it out
Add a splash more cream to balance the spice
Use smoked paprika instead of cayenne for depth without the burn

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Get ready to turn simple pantry staples into a mouthwatering dish that’ll make everyone ask for seconds. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a cheesy, spicy, and creamy Cajun chicken pasta that’s as irresistible as it is easy.

Preparing the Cajun Chicken

Season and Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces for quicker and even cooking.
Toss it in Cajun seasoning until fully coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and sear on both sides for about 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken and set aside. Don’t wipe the pan — you’ll want those flavorful bits for the sauce!

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the chicken space to brown and lock in flavor — it makes a huge difference!

Making the Creamy Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Build Flavor from the Bottom of the Pan

In the same skillet, melt another 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant — don’t let it burn!
Pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. That’s pure gold for flavor.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring gently.

Add the Cheese and Create the Cream Dream

Slowly stir in the shredded mozzarella a handful at a time, whisking until melted and silky smooth.
Add salt, pepper, and a pinch more Cajun seasoning if you like a stronger kick.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat.

Curious about how to cook pasta perfectly every time? Check out this expert pasta cooking guide. You’ll never under- or over-boil again.

Cooking the Spaghetti and Bringing It All Together

Perfect Pasta, Creamy Finish

While making the sauce, cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente (usually 8–9 minutes).
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce.
Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce, if needed.
Gently mix everything together until the pasta is coated with the garlicky, creamy Cajun cheese sauce.

Optional Finishing Touches

Sprinkle with extra mozzarella and let it melt into the top.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for color and freshness.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra spicy finish.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations for Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Adjusting the Spice Level in Cajun Chicken Pasta

From Mild to Extra Spicy — Your Call

Everyone has a different spice threshold, and this dish plays nice no matter what side of the spectrum you land on.

Mild: Use half the Cajun seasoning and add a dash of Italian herbs for balance.
Medium (default): Stick with the recipe — a full-flavored kick without setting your mouth on fire.
Hot: Crank it up with cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce in the cream base.

Want to mellow the heat naturally? Stir in extra mozzarella or cream right at the end.

Cheese Matters: Tips for the Mozzarella Sauce

Get That Perfect Creamy Pull

Use low-moisture mozzarella for fewer clumps and a smoother finish.
Mix in a handful of Parmesan or Monterey Jack for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Stir continuously as you add the cheese — patience makes it silky, not stringy.

If you’re looking to explore more about the types of mozzarella that melt best, here’s a great mozzarella cheese guide.

Smart Storage and Reheating Tips

Keep It Creamy, Even the Next Day

Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to bring back that fresh-cooked flavor:

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: Not ideal due to the cream base, but it works in a pinch. Thaw slowly in the fridge, then reheat gently.

Fun & Tasty Variations of Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti

Spaghetti’s great — but you can totally flip the script and still keep all the flavor.

Protein Swaps

Shrimp: A classic Cajun combo! Add them at the very end to avoid overcooking.
Sausage: Smoked Andouille sausage gives an authentic Louisiana twist.
Tofu or Chickpeas: Great vegetarian protein options that soak up the sauce beautifully.

Different Pasta Shapes

Fettuccine or Linguine: For a more luxe, slurp-worthy bite
Penne or Rotini: They catch the sauce in all the nooks and crannies

Add-ins to Boost Flavor

Sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of tangy sweetness
Spinach or kale for extra greens
Mushrooms for umami depth

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

What is Cajun seasoning made of?

Cajun seasoning is typically a bold blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Some versions also include white pepper or a touch of salt. It’s smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor — perfect for adding depth to chicken and pasta dishes.

Want it milder? Just scale back the cayenne.

Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese gives the dish that iconic stretchy, melty texture, it’s not your only option.

Try mixing or swapping with:

Parmesan – for a sharper, saltier edge
Monterey Jack – creamy with a subtle tang
Cream cheese – to make it even richer and thicker

Each of these adds its own twist to the creamy garlic sauce without overpowering the Cajun flavor.

Is this creamy Cajun pasta dish spicy?

It can be — but only if you want it to be. The heat level depends entirely on your Cajun seasoning and how much you use.

To keep it kid-friendly or milder:

Use a low-sodium, mild Cajun blend
Add more cream or mozzarella to balance the spice
Skip extra hot peppers or cayenne

Need heat? Just sprinkle some red pepper flakes or dash in a bit of your favorite spicy seasoning.

Can I bake this Cajun chicken spaghetti instead?

Yes, and it’s delicious! After mixing the pasta with the sauce and chicken:

Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle extra mozzarella (and maybe some breadcrumbs) on top.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

You’ll get a crispy top with that same creamy center — perfect for dinner parties or meal prepping.

What other pasta shapes work for this recipe?

While spaghetti is the classic choice, plenty of other shapes play well with the sauce. Try:

Penne or rigatoni – holds sauce inside the tubes
Farfalle (bowtie) – fun and holds up to the weight of the sauce
Rotini or fusilli – the spirals trap creamy sauce like a charm

In short, if it’s pasta, it can work!

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