Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips; 12 oz linguine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This creamy Cajun chicken linguine is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines perfectly seasoned chicken, tender linguine, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. It’s a comforting meal that I love to make when I want something both bold and indulgent.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together Cajun spices with a creamy parmesan sauce, creating the best balance of spicy and savory flavors. The chicken turns out tender, the pasta soaks up the sauce beautifully, and the garlic-parmesan combo makes it irresistible. It’s one of those dishes that feels restaurant-worthy but is simple enough for me to whip up at home.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
12 oz linguine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set it aside.
I season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, making sure they’re evenly coated.
In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, then remove it from the pan.
In the same skillet, I melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
I pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer, then stir in the parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
I return the chicken to the skillet and toss in the cooked linguine, coating everything in the sauce.
I garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It usually takes me around 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in about 35 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap linguine for fettuccine or penne when I want a different pasta shape.
For extra heat, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the Cajun seasoning.
If I’m in the mood for seafood, I replace the chicken with shrimp.
I occasionally lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer using the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. The microwave works too, but I stir it halfway to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, I often use store-bought Cajun seasoning for convenience, but I can also mix my own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then prepare the sauce fresh when I’m ready to serve for the best texture.

What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?

I like linguine because it holds the sauce beautifully, but fettuccine or spaghetti also work well.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, I simply reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. The garlic parmesan sauce balances the heat nicely.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if I use gluten-free pasta and double-check that my Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain hidden gluten.

Conclusion

This creamy Cajun chicken linguine with garlic parmesan sauce is a dish I keep coming back to whenever I want something flavorful, creamy, and satisfying. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve when I’m having company.