Description
Looking for an easy dinner idea that’s full of bold, satisfying flavor? This Spicy Cajun Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Linguine is your new go-to. Juicy, spice-rubbed chicken meets a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce tossed with tender linguine. It’s the perfect blend of heat and comfort, ideal for quick weeknight dinners, cozy date nights, or when you’re craving something indulgent and homemade. If you’re hunting for a rich and flavorful pasta dish that’s both an easy recipe and a showstopper — this is it.
Ingredients
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic minced
1.5 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
0.25 cup reserved pasta water
12 oz linguine
Salt (for pasta water)
Fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Extra Parmesan shavings (optional garnish)
Chili oil or Cajun seasoning drizzle (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and rub with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Let rest 5 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30–45 seconds).
5. Pour in heavy cream while whisking. Let simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
6. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. Add red pepper flakes and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
7. Stir in pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
8. Add cooked linguine and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
9. Slice rested chicken and serve over the pasta. Garnish with parsley, Parmesan, and chili oil if desired.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juiciness.
Save pasta water — it’s key for adjusting sauce consistency without thinning flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Cajun Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 large plate
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: spicy chicken pasta, easy dinner, creamy linguine, garlic Parmesan sauce