Description
A creamy, bold pasta dish featuring Cajun-spiced chicken, linguine, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. The perfect mix of heat, creaminess, and comfort — all ready in about 30 minutes for a quick yet luxurious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, toss chicken strips with Cajun seasoning to coat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stir, and heat for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add chicken and cooked linguine to the sauce. Toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- Use shrimp or smoked sausage in place of chicken for variation.
- Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Mix in Pecorino Romano for a stronger cheese flavor.
- Control heat by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Cajun-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
