Description

Spicy meets creamy in this bold and comforting Savory Cajun Chicken and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Linguine—a perfect dinner idea for when you crave something satisfying but still easy to make. Juicy, pan-seared Cajun chicken brings the heat, while a silky garlic Parmesan sauce wraps around every strand of linguine, creating a restaurant-style experience right at your dinner table. Whether you’re searching for quick dinner ideas, creamy pasta dishes, or a spicy twist on comfort food, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

8 oz linguine pasta

2 tablespoons butter

4 garlic cloves minced

1 cup heavy cream

¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.

5. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), whisking until the sauce is smooth.

7. Add cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Season to taste.

8. Return chicken on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.

Let your chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.

Don’t forget to reserve pasta water—it’s a natural sauce enhancer.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ of recipe)
Calories: 620
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, chicken linguine, Cajun chicken pasta, spicy pasta, quick dinner ideas, comfort food