What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of flavors. The Cajun seasoning brings just the right amount of spice without overpowering the dish, while the rich Parmesan cream sauce adds a silky smoothness that perfectly complements the heat. Together, they create a dynamic, mouthwatering combination that will leave you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, ensuring the spices coat every piece evenly.
Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance the flavor.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it in the creamy Parmesan sauce until evenly coated.
Step 7: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Let it heat through for another minute.
Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Variations
This Cajun Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine Pasta is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on dietary needs or flavor preferences. Whether you’re looking for a lighter version or a spicier kick, here are a few ways to switch things up:
-
Gluten-Free Option – Swap the linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb alternative. Just be sure to use a gluten-free Cajun seasoning blend to keep the flavors intact.
-
Dairy-Free Alternative – For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute. Instead of Parmesan cheese, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
-
Extra Protein Boost – Want to pack in more protein? Add sliced andouille sausage, shrimp, or even grilled tofu for a heartier dish. This variation makes the meal even more satisfying, especially for bigger appetites.
-
Spicy Kick – If you love bold heat, amp up the Cajun seasoning with extra cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also stir in a bit of hot sauce for an added punch that takes the spice level up a notch.
How to Serve
Serving this Cajun Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine Pasta is all about elevating the flavors and balancing the richness with fresh, bright sides. Here are a few ideas on how to serve this delicious dish:
-
Pair with a Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette perfectly complements the creamy pasta. Try arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, and toss with a light lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze. The acidity cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce, adding a refreshing balance.
-
Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread – A side of crispy garlic bread is always a winner when serving pasta. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making it a satisfying accompaniment to the dish. You can also serve with a fresh baguette or soft dinner rolls for a more classic touch.
-
Roasted Vegetables – Roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini pair beautifully with this dish. Their natural sweetness and charred flavors complement the Cajun-spiced chicken and creamy pasta. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs, then roast until golden and tender.
-
Cold Beverage Pairing – For a refreshing drink to go with this hearty meal, try a chilled iced tea, sparkling water, or a citrusy lemonade. The light, fruity flavors will help cleanse your palate between bites, balancing the richness of the pasta.
These serving suggestions create a balanced, satisfying meal that will impress your family or guests while bringing out the bold flavors of the Cajun chicken and creamy pasta!
Recipe Tips
Here are some helpful tips to make your Cajun Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine Pasta even more delicious:
-
Make it a meal prep wonder: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply cook the chicken and pasta, mix in the creamy sauce, and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
-
Use freshly grated Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce, creating a silkier, richer texture.
-
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or skip the smoked paprika. Conversely, for extra spice, feel free to increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
-
Leftover chicken tip: If you have leftover Cajun-spiced chicken, it’s great for meal prep the next day! Shred or slice the chicken and toss it into salads, wraps, or even as a topping for grain bowls.
These tips will help you make the dish ahead of time, adjust the flavors to your liking, and ensure you’re making the most out of every bite!
Cooking Notes
-
Don’t overcook the chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken when you’re searing it. Overcooking can make it dry. Cook it just until it’s golden and cooked through.
-
Cream sauce consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick while cooking, simply add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
-
Pasta tip: When cooking your pasta, don’t forget to salt the water generously. It’ll enhance the flavor of the pasta and make a difference when mixed with the creamy sauce.
-
Toss the pasta with the sauce immediately: After cooking the pasta, be sure to toss it into the creamy sauce right away while it’s still hot to help the pasta absorb all those rich flavors.
These cooking notes will guide you to make this dish perfectly every time!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 650 per serving
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 800mg
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings