Savory Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine

Savory Cajun Chicken Over Creamy Parmesan Linguine

A Flavor-Packed Southern-Inspired Comfort Dish

Looking for a rich, comforting, and restaurant-style dinner you can make at home in under an hour? This Savory Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine is the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and satisfying. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken strips are served over buttery linguine pasta coated in a velvety parmesan cream sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken strips and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and set aside, covered to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
6. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Toss the cooked linguine into the creamy sauce until evenly coated.
2. Divide the pasta onto serving plates.
3. Top each plate with warm Cajun chicken slices.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt smoothly. Freshly grated cheese ensures a creamy texture.
• Control the heat: Cajun seasoning can vary in spiciness. Taste and adjust to suit your preference.
• Add veggies: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions.
• Swap the protein: Try shrimp, tofu, or salmon instead of chicken for variety.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold Southern flavor
• Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying
• Ready in about 40 minutes
• Ideal for family dinners or romantic nights in
• Customizable with your favorite ingredients