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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Spaghetti Pasta: Regular spaghetti works great, but you can swap it out for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breast for its lean quality. You could also use thighs for more flavor, or even shrimp or sausage, which would add a lovely kick!

Cajun Seasoning: Feel free to make your own blend with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if you don’t have store-bought Cajun seasoning. It’s fun to adjust the spices to your taste!

Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even evaporated milk might work as lighter substitutes. For a dairy-free choice, try a coconut milk alternative, but remember it might change the flavor slightly.

Cheese: While I stick to cheddar for that melty goodness, mozzarella or pepper jack can be delicious alternatives. Mixing different cheeses can bring out new flavors in the dish!

How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?

Cooking chicken may seem tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature! To keep it juicy, follow these steps:

• Cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
• Always heat your skillet before adding oil, which helps sear the chicken.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to get that nice browning.
• Cook until just cooked through (5-7 minutes) and let it rest for a minute before mixing back in with the other ingredients. This helps retain moisture.

By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken in your pasta dish every single time!

Bold And Cajun Chicken Spaghetti

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz spaghetti pasta

For the Chicken:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

For the Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and 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 the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

2. Sauté the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and thinly sliced red bell pepper for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and smoked paprika, continuing to sauté for an additional 1 minute, just until fragrant.

4. Make the Sauce:

Now, stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Slowly add the shredded cheese, stirring until it is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste your sauce and season it with salt and black pepper according to your liking.

5. Combine Everything:

Add the cooked spaghetti and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with that delicious Cajun sauce. Cook everything together for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the spaghetti to warm through.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch! Enjoy your Bold And Cajun Chicken Spaghetti with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal!

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!

What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?

No worries! You can make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of thyme. Adjust the spices depending on your heat preference!

How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even cooked beans for protein. You can also swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth!

Can I Store Leftovers?

Yes! 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 occasionally for even heating. You might need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen up the sauce!