Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 340 g spaghetti; 15 ml olive oil; 56 g salted butter, divided; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.125 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon dried basil; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 60 g grated Parmesan cheese for crusting chicken; 360 ml heavy cream; 180 ml low sodium chicken broth; 110 g shredded mozzarella; 110 g shredded sharp cheddar; 75 g grated Parmesan cheese for sauce; 57 g cream cheese, softened; Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: October 19, 2025

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Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Life can be pretty demanding if you are a pretty passionate home cook like me. It involves juggling work, kids, and all kinds of day-to-day chores just to find time to prepare something hearty and tasty. And that is precisely where my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti steps in! This scrumptious beauty is just what you need on those busy evenings when all you crave is some comfort food but don’t wish to labor in the kitchen for hours on end. It has quite a strong flavor and satisfying texture to leave that ‘special someone’ or your family impressed. Believe me, this recipe is a hug in a bowl that brings everyone together!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the satisfaction of protein-packed chicken, all in one dish. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for families or hosting friends. Plus, the rich flavors and cheesy goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds. What’s not to love about a meal that tastes gourmet but feels like home?

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For a delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti, you’ll need a handful of essentials that create this creamy masterpiece.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of this dish! Tender and juicy, they soak up all the flavors beautifully.
Spaghetti: Perfectly twirls around your fork, making every bite satisfying. You can switch to whole wheat or gluten-free for a healthier option.
Olive oil: A touch of this luscious oil adds richness and helps to cook the chicken perfectly.
Salted butter: Adds a creamy depth to the sauce and aids in browning the chicken, giving it a lovely golden color.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a punch and gives this dish its aromatic flavor, making every bite a taste explosion!
Cajun seasoning: A bit of spice to wake up your taste buds! Feel free to adjust based on your family’s heat tolerance.
Smoked paprika: This adds a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce splendidly.
Salt and black pepper: The classic seasonings. They enhance all the other flavors in this dish.
Italian seasoning & dried basil: These herbs bring an Italian flair, wrapping the dish in aromatic goodness.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like it a bit spicy, these add just the right kick!
Grated Parmesan cheese: Not only for crusting the chicken but also to mix into the sauce, it takes the flavor over the top.
Heavy cream: The secret to that ultra-creamy texture you crave; it’s rich and decadent.
Low sodium chicken broth: Helps create the sauce base while keeping it flavorful and not overly salty.
Shredded mozzarella & sharp cheddar: These cheeses melt beautifully, adding a stretchy, cheesy layer to this dish!
Cream cheese: It adds extra creaminess and a touch of tang for balance in the sauce.
Fresh chopped parsley: Not just for garnish! It adds a pop of freshness that brightens up the dish.

Don’t worry if you need to make substitutions; cooking is all about creativity! Want to switch up the protein? Shrimp works wonderfully too. For exact measurements, you’ll find them at the bottom of the article, perfect for printing.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Now, let’s dive into the heart of this recipe! Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a breeze. I’ll walk you through each step, so you’ll feel like a pro in your kitchen!

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until it’s just al dente, which means firm to the bite. As you’re cooking, keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. When it’s done, drain the spaghetti and drizzle a bit of olive oil over it to keep it from clumping together. Set it aside while you work on the chicken.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Next, grab your thinly sliced chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps achieve a lovely sear. Season the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. These spices bring amazing flavor to the dish! Now, press grated Parmesan cheese onto the chicken to create a light crust that will develop a delicious golden layer when cooked.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and some butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken to the skillet. Sear for about 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully golden. In the last minute, add a bit more butter and half the minced garlic. This will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t you love one-pan meals?), melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the other half of the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it! Now, pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth, gently stirring. Bring it to a simmer. Then, whisk in the cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and 75 grams of Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into a luxurious creamy sauce that will ultimately blanket your spaghetti.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add your cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently, ensuring every strand of pasta is lavishly coated in that creamy goodness. Allow it to rest over low heat for about one minute. This lets the spaghetti absorb some of those delicious flavors, making each bite memorable!

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Finally, it’s serving time! Arrange the sauced spaghetti neatly onto plates and then top it with those golden, parmesan-crusted chicken strips. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. This finishing touch is not just pretty; it adds a fresh flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish.

And there you have it! Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is ready to take center stage at the dinner table.

Tips for Success

Don’t rush the chicken searing; let it get a nice golden crust for better flavor.
Keep the water salted for cooking pasta; it’s the best way to enhance the overall taste.
Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth consistency.
To save time, prep your ingredients ahead of cooking.
Feel free to adjust seasoning to match your family’s palate.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti. A Dutch oven works well if you have one.
Skillet: A large non-stick skillet is ideal for making the chicken and sauce.
Utensils: Use a wooden spoon for stirring and a spatula for flipping the chicken.
Colander: Essential for draining the pasta after cooking.

Variations

Shrimp or Scallops: Swap out chicken for succulent shrimp or plump scallops for a seafood twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Use whole wheat spaghetti for extra fiber or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Spicy Variant: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave an extra kick.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie dish while still enjoying the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp Caesar salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Pair with garlic bread for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy pasta.
Consider a chilled glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to enhance your meal.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flair!

FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Here are some common questions that folks like you often ask about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti. Let’s dive into these and see how we can make your cooking experience even better!

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stovetop and add a splash of cream to loosen the sauce.

How can I make it healthier?

To lighten things up, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition!

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you want a change, consider shrimp or even tofu! Both will work perfectly with the creamy sauce and add a different flair.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love creamy pasta, and the cheesy goodness makes it even more appealing. You can adjust the spices to suit their taste.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

Final Thoughts

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti isn’t just about cooking a meal; it’s about creating cherished moments around the dinner table. This dish serves as a warm reminder of home, family, and comfort. As I twirl my fork into that creamy goodness, I can already feel the stress of the day ebb away. Whether you’re wrapping up a long day or celebrating a special occasion, this recipe will bring joy and satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves and savor the experience of cooking and sharing this delightful dish. Trust me; it’s a journey worth taking!