Turn up the heat on your pasta night with this Savory Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine! Juicy, spice-rubbed chicken paired with a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce makes this dish a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up at home in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this one-skillet recipe delivers bold Cajun flavor with every bite of creamy linguine. It’s rich, indulgent, and endlessly customizable!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2–3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 8 oz linguine, cooked and drained
- Fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, for garnish
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Cajun Chicken
Season chicken generously with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear the chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thick and creamy.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Slice or return whole chicken to the pan. Spoon sauce over the top and let simmer 2–3 more minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
Serve the chicken over a bed of hot linguine. Pour the remaining sauce generously over the pasta. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
Customization Ideas
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Protein Swap: Shrimp, sausage, or tofu work beautifully here.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use GF linguine and a gluten-free Cajun spice blend.
- Spice Lovers: Add jalapeños or extra Cajun seasoning for more heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Finish with thyme or basil for a fragrant twist.
Pro Tips
- Don’t Overcook: Pull the chicken off the heat once it hits 165°F to keep it moist and tender.
- Go Fresh: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, silkier sauce.
- Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Dinner: Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch.
- Weekend Brunch: Serve alongside fresh fruit, mimosas, or espresso.
- Party-Ready: Plate it with garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp Caesar salad.
Final Thoughts
Bold, creamy, and downright addictive—Savory Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a flavorful twist on comfort food that’s hard to resist. The balance of spicy chicken with buttery pasta makes it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Your Turn! Ever tried mixing Cajun spice with creamy pasta? Got a twist you love adding? Share your ideas in the comments below! 🌶️🍗🍝
