Description
This Savory Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a rich, flavorful dish combining perfectly seasoned Cajun chicken and a creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that’s quick enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Set aside for a few minutes to marinate.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, boil the linguine in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine with Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked Cajun chicken into thin strips.
- Assemble the Dish: Plate the creamy linguine and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
- To make it spicier, add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lighter cheese like Asiago or Romano.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg