Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Cajun Cream
Ingredients→ Main Ingredients 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips 12 oz spaghetti→ Cooking Oils and Butter 1 tbsp olive oil 4 tbsp salted butter, divided→ Seasonings and Spices 5 cloves garlic, minced 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp salt 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ½ tsp Italian seasoning ½ tsp dried basil ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)→ Cheeses ½ cup grated Parmesan (for crusting the chicken) 1½ cups heavy cream ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth 1 cup shredded mozzarella 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar ¾ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce) 2 oz cream cheese, softened→ Garnish Fresh chopped parsley, for garnishStepsBring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just al dente. Drain, toss lightly with olive oil, and set aside so it doesn’t stick.Pat the chicken dry, then season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press the grated Parmesan onto the chicken pieces to create a light crust.In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 4–6 minutes, flipping as needed, until the pieces are cooked through and golden. Toss in 1 tablespoon of butter and half of the garlic during the last minute of cooking. Stir and cook until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the rest of the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring it to a simmer.Whisk in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Slowly stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Use tongs to toss and coat the pasta thoroughly. Let it sit over low heat for another minute to absorb the flavors.Plate the cheesy spaghetti and top it with the Parmesan-crusted chicken strips. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.