Chicken Parmesan Spaghetti (Print-Friendly Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Protein
01 -
2 big boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into thin strips
→ Pasta
02 -
12 oz spaghetti noodles
→ Fats and Oils
03 -
4 tablespoons salted butter, split
04 -
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
→ Aromatics and Seasonings
05 -
5 minced garlic cloves
06 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 -
1.5 teaspoons Cajun spice mix
08 -
1/8 teaspoon fresh black pepper, add as you like
09 -
1 teaspoon salt
10 -
1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs
11 -
1/4 teaspoon crushed chili flakes (optional)
12 -
1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
→ Cheeses
13 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
14 -
3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
15 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
16 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
17 -
2 ounces softened cream cheese
18 -
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated for sauce
19 -
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated to coat chicken
→ Garnish
20 -
Chopped fresh parsley
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Boil a big pot of water then cook spaghetti until it’s just firm to bite. Drain and toss with olive oil to keep it from sticking. Put it aside.
02 -
Dry the chicken and rub on Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Press on Parmesan cheese so it sticks and makes a crust.
03 -
Warm olive oil with 2 tablespoons of butter in a big pan on medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4 to 6 minutes, turning till golden and done.
04 -
Throw in 1 tablespoon butter and half the garlic during the last minute. Stir till garlic smells great and is buttery. Take chicken out and set it aside.
05 -
In the same pan, add the rest of the butter and garlic. Cook for half a minute till it smells amazing.
06 -
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and let it simmer. Add cream cheese and whisk till smooth. Slowly mix in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
07 -
Add Italian herbs, dried basil, and chili flakes if you want heat. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Let it simmer 2 to 3 minutes till thick and rich.
08 -
Put the cooked pasta right into the sauce. Use tongs to mix so every strand is coated. Keep on low heat for one minute to soak up the flavors.
09 -
Dish out the cheesy spaghetti and top with the Parmesan-coated chicken strips. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Coating chicken with freshly grated Parmesan really amps up the taste and makes a nice crispy crust.