Spicy Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Spicy Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine in Garlic Parmesan Sauce 

 

Looking for a restaurant-quality dinner that brings bold flavor and creamy comfort right to your kitchen table? This Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine is the perfect combination of seared Cajun-spiced chicken, rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, and tender linguine. Every bite is full of warmth, spice, and creamy goodness—a dish guaranteed to impress your family or dinner guests!

 Ingredients

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Garlic Parmesan Linguine:

• 1 lb (450g) linguine pasta
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

 Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook until just al dente (firm to the bite), about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub each breast generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to rest.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, reduce heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for flavor. Add the heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked linguine to the Parmesan cream sauce and toss gently until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Slice the Chicken and Assemble

Slice the rested Cajun chicken into thin strips. Plate the creamy linguine in shallow bowls or plates, then arrange the sliced chicken on top. Spoon over a bit of the reserved Cajun cream sauce from earlier for extra flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top everything with fresh chopped basil, parsley, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!

 Cooking Time:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

 Servings:

4 generous portions

 Calories:

Approximately 750 calories per serving

 Tips and Variations

• Spice Level: If you like it extra spicy, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne with the Cajun seasoning.
• Protein Options: Try this dish with shrimp, salmon, or sliced sausage instead of chicken.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter version.
• Homemade Cajun Seasoning: Mix 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp thyme, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste.

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