CREAMY CAJUN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI SKILLET
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
12 oz spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Optional: a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Directions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove to a plate and keep warm.
Make the sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
Creamy finish: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until it starts to thicken. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Combine: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until well coated. Stir in a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Serve it up: Top the pasta with the cooked Cajun chicken, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4