Spicy Cajun Chicken Linguine In Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
A creamy, garlicky Cajun pasta loaded with tender chicken strips, tossed in a smooth Parmesan sauce, and served with perfectly cooked linguine. A weeknight meal that feels indulgent but comes together fast.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Boil salted water and cook linguine until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Toss chicken strips with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through, then set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 2 cups heavy cream and 1 cup Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Return chicken to skillet, add linguine, and toss to coat. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water. Garnish with parsley and serve.