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Cajun Chicken and Garlic Parmesan Linguine

Cajun Chicken and Garlic Parmesan Linguine is a bold and creamy pasta dish made with juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, tender linguine, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something flavorful, filling, and restaurant-quality at home
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz 340 g linguine pasta
  • 1½ lbs 680 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water as needed
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional garnish)
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • Red pepper flakes for extra heat
  • Spinach or broccoli

Method
 

  1. Cook linguine in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Season chicken evenly with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and slice.
  5. In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Add cooked linguine to the sauce and toss to coat.
  9. Return sliced Cajun chicken to the skillet and mix gently.
  10. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  11. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting
Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice level
Do not overcook garlic to avoid bitterness
Best served immediately for maximum creaminess