Description
Savor the delicious flavors of Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine, a comforting meal that combines Cajun spices and creamy pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pieces Chicken Breast (Substitution: use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning (Substitution: homemade blend possible for customized spice levels.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Substitution: can be replaced with vegetable or canola oil.)
- 12 ounces Linguine (Substitution: fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne can work.)
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 4 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced for robust flavor.)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitution: half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Substitution: Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.)
- 1 tablespoon Parsley (For garnish.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for additional heat.)
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then coat them generously with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt butter and sauté garlic for about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing until evenly coated.
- Plate the linguine topped with sliced Cajun chicken, garnished with parsley and red pepper flakes.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg